Keep Your Pet's Smile Bright - 5 Simple Steps

February is Dental Health Month here at Molson Park Pet Hospital.  We can all appreciate the effect a healthy mouth can have on our pet's breath, but did you know that even mild to moderate dental disease can shorten your pet's lifespan? Bacteria and tartar on the teeth can irritate the gums, leading to gingivitis (gum inflammation). The gums then pull away from the teeth, leading to bleeding, sore gums and dental root infections. This bacteria can then travel into the bloodstream to other organs, affecting the lungs, kidneys, heart and liver.

A simple way to help prevent this is to brush your pet's teeth regularly! Brushing your pet's teeth every 1-2 days removes plaque and bacteria. But what if my pet HATES toothbrushing, you say?  Well, here's a simple, step-by-step guide to helping your pet adjust to regular toothbrushing. The process of helping your pet become accustomed to toothbrushing can take several weeks to a month or more, but your pet's health will benefit immensely!

1. Start by gently handling your pet's muzzle area on a regular basis, for a few seconds at a time.  End each session with a treat, positive reward or playtime. Do not force your pet to submit to handling, go slowly, at their own pace.


2.  Next, introduce a small amount of pet toothpase with a finger. Start with the canine teeth (fangs), and gradually work around the entire mouth, including the gums.


3. Now introduce the toothbrush. Wet the bristles and place a line of toothpaste on the brush, pressing it firmly into the bristles with your finger. Hold the toothbrush like a pet, and concentrate soley on the canine teeth, using a circular motion.


4. Now start to work along the top teeth from the canines  to the back of the mouth using a gentle circular motion. Gradually build up the amount of time and pressure applied to each tooth.


5. Finally, brush the front teeth. Gently hold the muzzle and lift the upper lip. Use an up and down motion on the front teeth.

The veterinary technicians here at the clinic are all willing demonstrators of the toothbrushing technique, and would be happy to go over your pet's dental health status with you at any time.

Happy Brushing!