Oral Health Care : Oral Health Care at Home
How can I make a difference?
 
1. Brushing the teeth is the most important component of preventative oral care.  Did you know that plaque begins forming on teeth 6-8 hours after brushing/cleaning?  Plaque is the colorless, bacteria-ridden substance that causes periodontal disease.  In only 3-5 short days, this plaque can harden into tartar. Brushing is the best way to prevent periodontal disease.
  • Pet toothbrushes are available for dogs and cats.  Cats in particular may need special cat designed brushes or fingertip brushes.  Soft-bristled toddler brushes also work well.  Use a brush that fits the size of your pet's mouth.  Electric brushes also are effective.  Use a different brush on each pet.  Wrapping gauze around your finger is another option, but is not as good as a brush.
  • Pet toothpaste is available in several flavors, making brushing more enjoyable for your pet.  Pet toothpaste will not foam up like human paste.  Do not use human paste as it is meant to be spit out.  Beef broth or tuna water can also be used on the brush to encourage acceptance of the brush.
  • Brush your pet's teeth daily.   Make brushing part of your daily routine.  Brushing at the same time each day or around a daily activity (such as the nightly news or after your pet's afternoon nap) will help remind you to perform this important duty.
  • Introduce brushing slowly.  It may take weeks or months to become accustomed to this.

                           - Keep this new experience positive.  If your pet becomes agitated or anxious, stop and try again later.  Cats respond best to little restraint.

                           - Start by first letting your pet lick at the toothbrush and taste the paste.  Get them comfortable with the brush before actually applying it to the teeth.

                           - Once your pet is comfortable with this, try brushing with one to two brief strokes on just a couple of teeth.  Gradually increase time on each tooth until your pet allows you to brush with ease.

  • Concentrate on the outer surface of the teeth as the pet's tongue keeps the inner surface fairly clean.  Ideally, hold the brush at a 45 degree angle to the tooth and work the brush in a circular motion along the tooth surface and gumline.  Remember to brush all the teeth, including the front incisors.  Spend approximately 30 seconds in each quadrant of your pet's mouth if possible.
  • Talk to and praise your pet while brushing.  Reward your pet with a special toy, treat, playtime, or walk after brushing.
  • If your pet likes, place a rubber bone in his mouth to act as a prop to keep the mouth open.  This may make it easier for you to reach their teeth.  After brushing, he can have the bone to play with.

2. Feed a plaque fighting food such as Science Diet t/d for cats and dogs.  The kibble is designed to mechanically remove plaque from the teeth before it can harden into tartar.  Science Diet Oral Care and Friskies Feline Dental Diet are effective over-the-counter diets. 

3. Use oral rinses/sprays that contain chlorhexidine or zinc gluconate.  They control plaque, gingivitis, and freshen breath.  Use once or twice daily.
 
4. Use Oravet sealant.  When used once weekly, Oravet prevents bacteria from adhering to teeth.  We apply Oravet after cleaning your pet's teeth.
 

5. Use a water additive in your pet's drinking water every day.  These products clean the teeth and gums, reduce plaque, and freshen breath.

 

6. Replace your usual treats with those designed for dental care.  Some examples are Greenies, Tartar Shields, Vetradent Dog Chews, Bright Bites and Checkups Chews for Dogs, and CET Rawhides.  If your pet gets treats daily, you need to consider their caloric content and adjust their food intake accordingly.  Always monitor your pet when giving a new treat and never allow them to swallow large pieces of a treat.
 
7. Have regular veterinary oral exams.  These are performed during annual and semiannual wellness exams.
 
8. Have complete oral assessments & radiograph(OAR) performed under general anesthesia by Companion Animal Care's caring team.  The cleaning includes full mouth radiographs (xrays) to detect any disease under the gumline.   We recommend a full set of radio graphs as soon as all the permanent teeth are erupted.  Radiographs are then recommended every 1-2 years depending on your pet's size, if they have tooth crowding, or their degree of periodontal disease. 
 
9.  Have your dog vaccinated with the Porphyromonas vaccine.  The vaccine is designed to combat the bacteria that cause periodontal disease.  It may prolong the time between dental cleanings. 
 
10. Have any retained baby teeth removed immediately.  If the adult tooth has broken through the gumline and the baby tooth is still present, it can cause a malocclusion.
 
11. Have any broken or discolored teeth examined immediately.  They can rapidly lead to abscesses. 
 
Things to avoid:
 

Human toothpaste is not meant to be swallowed and can cause stomach upset.

 

Over–the-Counter Products not proven by veterinary dentists to prevent plaque and tartar buildup in our pets. Only products containing zinc gluconate or chlorhexidine, or carry the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) label have been clinically proven to be effective.

 

Ignoring the problem  
Unfortunately, periodontal disease is progressive, so ignoring it means it will continue to get worse. 

To learn more about plaque prevention visit OraVet.com