Wednesday, September 9, 2009

How to brush your dog's teeth


There are important facts about pets' mouth that tell us when, where and how to brush. It takes less than 36 hours for this plaque to become mineralized and harden into "tartar" that cannot be removed with a brush. To avoid this progression, brushing should be done daily, with a brush to remove the plaque from under the gum line.
Pick a time of day that will become a convenient part of your pet's daily routine. Take a few days to let both of you get use to the process. Follow with praise and a walk or treat each time.
How to brush your Dog's Teeth -
Start by offering your dog a taste of the dog's toothpaste. The next time, let him taste the toothpaste, then run your finger along the gums of the upper teeth. Repeat the process with the tooth brush. Get the bristles of the brush along the gum line of the upper back teeth and angle slightly up, so the bristles get under the gum line. Work from back to front, making small circles along the gum lines. Do not try to brush the entire mouth at first. If your pet eventually allows you to brush most of his teeth, so much the better.
Even with the best tooth brushing, some dogs may still need an occasional professional cleaning. By brushing your pet's teeth daily, you may reduce the frequency and involvement of dental cleanings.

No comments: