Dogs get plaque and tartar on their teeth just like humans
do. Cleaning your dogs teeth between professional cleanings
is very simple.
Keeping your dogs teeth and gums clean will eliminate "doggy
breath" as well as keep your dog healthy.
Most veterinarians suggest twice a week brushings. When
brushing teeth, use baking soda or a special toothpaste
formulated for dogs, not toothpaste for humans. Pet
toothpastes contain enzymes that help dissolve plaque and
can be swallowed. They also taste good.
Use a toothbrush designed for pets or small children. Or
just use gauze or a washcloth if the pet doesn't like the
brush.
Tooth brushing is best but if the dog won't let you brush
it's teeth then giving it something to chew that rubs on the
sides of the teeth is useful.
Although dogs do not usually get cavities in their teeth,
tooth problems result from soft foods that can leave debris
in gum pockets at the base of the teeth, known as
gingivitis. Infections form which soften and cause the gums
to recede. Bad breath is a symptom.
Tartar buildup can be removed from teeth by rubbing with a
solution of three percent hydrogen peroxide. Advanced
buildup requires scraping with dental instruments. Some
veterinarians use ultrasonics now as well, so the treatment
is more pleasant.
For between dental visits, provide soft chew toys made of
rubber or nylon and something made of fiber like a chew rope
which helps to wipe the teeth clean.
For more information on how to keep your dogs teeth and
mouth healthy visit: http://www.apluswriting.net/petcare/dogteeth.htm
REQUIREMENTS FOR REPRINT: You have permission to publish
this article free of charge in your e-zine, newsletter,
ebook, print publication or on your website ONLY if it
remains unchanged and you include the copyright and author
information (Resource Box) at the end. You may not use
this article in any unsolicited commercial email (spam).
Copyright: 2005 Marilyn Pokorney
Please leave the resource box intact with an active link,
and send a courtesy copy of the publication in which the
article appears to: marilynp@nctc.net
