What’s the best approach to dog and cat teeth cleaning?

By Cheryl Yuill, DVM, MSc, CVH

Why should I brush my dog’s teeth or cat’s teeth?

• It’s estimated that over 2/3rds of dogs and cats over 3 have periodontitis, an infection of the tissues surrounding the teeth.
• Left untreated, periodontal disease leads to tooth loss of teeth and a number of diseases throughout the body. See Dental Disease in Dogs and Dental Disease in Cats.
• In short, teeth cleaning helps keep your dog or cat healthy!

When should I brush my dog's or cat’s teeth?

• Brushing should become part of your pet’s daily routine, or at least twice a week.
• The ideal time to teach your dog or cat to accept teeth brushing is while still a puppy or kitten. If you have an older pet, the training process may take a little longer.

What ‘s the easiest way to teach my dog to accept teeth brushing?

First, make it a positive experience for the pet by praising your dog or cat throughout the procedure, reassuring him or her at every step. And, be patient as you follow these steps:

• Choose a quiet time and place to start brushing.
• With small dogs and most cats, hold your pet securely in your lap, with its head facing away from you.
• If your dog is larger, you should sit on a chair and have your dog sit beside you so you can comfortably handle the mouth and teeth.
• Start by rubbing your finger or a soft cloth over the outer surfaces of your pet's teeth, using a back-and-forth motion. Be careful to stay on the outside surfaces of the teeth to avoid being bitten by accident.
• For the first few lessons, only rub the cloth along a few teeth rather than the whole mouth, especially if your pet is unsure or nervous about the process.
• Introduce pet toothpaste on your finger when your pet is comfortable with you rubbing the teeth.
• Then, apply a small amount of pet toothpaste to the cloth and rub it over the teeth.
• Start using a toothbrush with pet toothpaste once your pet is completely used to you rubbing the teeth with a cloth. Always be gentle and go slowly, since it’s easy to accidentally poke the toothbrush against gums and cause some irritation.

What type of toothbrush should I use?

• Toothbrushes designed specifically for pets are available at most pet supply stores.
• These include brushes with angled handles; brushes with multiple heads for simultaneously brushing the inside, outside and top surfaces of the tooth; small brushes that fit comfortably in your hand; and finger toothbrushes designed to fit over the tip of your finger.
• The type of toothbrush you use depends a little on the size of your pet and your own dexterity. Many pet owners find it easier to use a finger brush, especially when first beginning to brush their dog’s or cat’s teeth.

Is it okay to use “people toothpaste?”

NO!

Never use toothpastes and oral hygiene products for people. Many of them contain Xylitol, a sugar substitute that’s highly toxic in dogs. (Its effects are currently unknown in cats.)

Even if a toothpaste does not contain Xylitol, it will still contain ingredients , such as sodium, that should not be swallowed. If it is swallowed, it can cause an upset stomach or digestive disturbances. Baking soda is not good either. It can upset the acid balance in your pet’s stomach and digestive tract.

What else can I do to maintain my dog's or cat’s dental health?

For a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums,

• Have your veterinarian perform a complete oral health examination and prophylactic dental cleaning and polishing.
• Feed your pet a veterinarian-recommended dental diet designed to reduce tooth-decay causing plaque on the teeth
• Provide special dental chew toys or treats that help remove plaque buildup.
• Use an oral rinse designed for pets to help reduce the bacterial count in the mouth and improve breath.

Is there anything else I should know?

Since dog and cat mouths contain plenty of harmful bacteria, it’s extremely important that you wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after brushing your dog’s or cat’s teeth.

Also, rinse the toothbrush thoroughly before putting it away, and replace the toothbrush regularly. If you have several dogs, you should have a different toothbrush for each of them.

The great news is —your veterinarian can make sure your teeth cleaning routine is working.

Be sure to discuss your pet’s teeth at every vet visit, and ask about recommended dental health products.