Recent veterinary studies show that around 80 % of the two-year-old canine pets have problems with their teeth and gums. A properly scheduled and carried out dental health care routine will help to prevent canine health problems, which may develop from poor oral hygiene subsequently.

To clean your dog’s teeth you best use a special toothbrush and dog toothpaste you can get from your veterinary practice.

Start as early as possible in your dog’s life to brush his teeth and make it a relaxing, playful experience for your pet.

Use a small amount of canine toothpaste (it is usually flavored) and brush gently in circumscribing movements every side and top of all teeth. Include massaging the tissue that surrounds the teeth as well.

Rinsing the mouth is usually not necessary and this specially designed toothpaste can be swallowed.

Benefits of Good Canine Oral Hygiene

• Shiny, white teeth
• Strong and healthy gums
• No bad breath from the mouth
• Beginning dental problems can be detected right away and treated accordingly
• Healthy teeth and mouth help to prevent other common dog health problems

Why Remove Plaque and Tartar?

Plaque causes tooth problems and oral disease. It is a hard to remove, yellowish-brownish film that builds up constantly and transforms eventually into tartar.

Tartar sticks very firmly to the tooth’s surface and pushes itself in between gum and tooth. It also forms an ideal environment for pathogens and germs, which can spread via the blood stream into other organs, like liver, kidneys and the heart.

Tartar causes locally inflamed gums. Progressive gingivitis is an extremely painful condition and needs professional treatment.

Weak tooth-fixating tissue-structures cause loosening and finally loss of teeth.

Dog Owner's Checklist for Healthy Dog Teeth

These easy tasks help to maintain your dog healthy:

1. Ask your vet to examine your pet’s teeth and mouth professionally.

2. Preferably feed only food recommended by your veterinarian.

3. Make sure your dog does not get mouth injuries or broken teeth by chewing on hard objects.

4. Remember it takes only two minutes per day to clean your dog’s teeth.

5. Regular veterinary check ups will help to detect and treat occurring problems right away, so that your pet will not suffer from subsequent chronic diseases.