How To Brush Your Pet’s Teeth
Your pet’s teeth are just like yours – they need regular care at home to stay healthy and comfortable. And just like your own teeth, daily tooth brushing is the most effective way to take care of them. Nearly all pets can be trained to accept and even enjoy tooth brushing. It just takes a little time and patience!
What You Need
- A soft bristled tooth brush (AVC will give you one for free, just ask!). Some pets prefer thimble-style brushes.
- Pet toothpaste is often helpful if you find a flavor they like. NEVER use human toothpaste.
- Patience
Tooth Brush Training
- Our goal is to slowly acclimate the pet to brushing over 2-3 weeks.
- For the first few days, just let your pet lick up the toothpaste from the brush.
- Once they are used to the idea of the brush, try placing it into their mouth, then brushing a tooth or two.
- Every few days try to do a bit more – the goal is to slowly get them to realize the brush is no big deal, so you can brush all surfaces of their teeth just like you would your own.
- Any time your pet gets frustrated and pulls away, back up a step – patience is key, and they’ll relax about it in time. Trying to force the issue only stresses them and you out, making everything harder.
Tooth brushing is the most effective way to slow down plaque accumulation and stave off dental disease, but it’s not a substitute for a professional cleaning. Just like you, your pet needs occasional deep cleaning – but a good home care regimen can reduce dental disease and how frequently cleaning under anesthesia is necessary.