How to Keep Your Dog’s Teeth Clean and Avoid Costly Dental Procedures
According to every ad for dog food, people want the best for their pets – after all, they are part of the family. This includes providing them with the medical care they need. But what about their teeth?
If this is your first time caring for a dog, it may have come as a surprise to you when the vet first introduced you to the subject of caring for your new friend’s teeth. With regular toothbrushes ranging from $ 450 to $ 1000 and additional procedures (like extractions) that cost even more, and the fact that the dog is under anesthesia during the visit, you’ll want their champs as much as possible. clean and clean. as healthy as possible.
The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) recommends that you professionally brush your dog’s teeth at least once a year and maintain a healthy smile at home. Here’s how to do it.
Brush your teeth
Like us, dogs develop plaque and tartar on their teeth. “Brushing your pet’s teeth regularly is the single most effective remedy you can do to keep their teeth healthy between brushings, and can reduce the frequency or even eliminate the need for your veterinarian to occasionally brush their teeth,” AVMA said .
And here’s a video showing how to do it:
Ideally, your dog’s teeth should be brushed daily, but if not, a few times a week is sufficient.
Give them something to chew on
There are all sorts of treats, toys, chews, and sticks out there that claim to help you brush your dog’s teeth, but AVMA claims that not all are equally effective. You can ask your veterinarian for advice or visit the Veterinary Oral Hygiene Council (VOHC) website for the latest list of approved dental products for dogs that the organization tests and validates based on their ability to prevent plaque and tartar buildup.