03 Jan How to Brush Your Pet’s Teeth: A Step-by-Step Guide
How do I brush my pet’s teeth and why is it important? Brushing your pet’s teeth is one of the best ways to support their overall health. Dental care isn’t just about fresh breath—it helps prevent gum disease, tooth loss, and other serious health issues. While it might sound challenging at first, with patience and consistency, brushing your pet’s teeth can become a routine you both enjoy. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get started.
Why Is Pet Dental Care Important
Plaque and tartar buildup can lead to gum inflammation (gingivitis), bad breath, and painful infections. If left untreated, these issues can progress to periodontal disease, which can affect your pet’s overall health, including their heart, liver, and kidneys. Regular brushing can help avoid costly dental procedures and keep your furry friend happy and healthy.
Before committing to brushing your pet’s teeth schedule an exam with your veterinarian to evaluate the mouth for gingivitis, plaque, and tartar accumulation. Tooth brushing prevents gingivitis, plaque, and tartar accumulation, but it will not treat or remove tartar. Some pets may require an anesthetic professional dental cleaning prior to starting tooth brushing.
Step-by-Step Guide: Brush Your Pet’s Teeth
- Gather Your Supplies
- Pet-specific toothpaste: Human toothpaste contains ingredients like fluoride and xylitol that are toxic to pets. Choose a pet-safe toothpaste in flavors like poultry, beef, or peanut butter to make brushing more appealing.
- Pet toothbrush: A soft-bristled toothbrush designed for pets or a toddler’s toothbrush works best for reaching all tooth surfaces without irritating their gums. DO NOT USE A FINGER BRUSH! We use bristled brushes and so should your pet!
- Start with Familiarization
Your pet needs time to get used to the idea of having their teeth brushed.
- Let them sniff and taste the toothpaste. Every time they show interest in the toothbrush give a tasty treat!
- Gently touch their muzzle and lift their lips to expose their teeth. Again, reward them with praise or treats for staying calm.
- Choose the Right Time
Pick a time when your pet is calm and relaxed, such as after playtime or a meal. Avoid brushing if your pet is overly energetic or stressed.
- Position Your Pet Comfortably
- For dogs: Sit beside or behind them rather than directly in front. This is less intimidating.
- For cats: Wrap them in a towel or hold them securely in your lap to keep them comfortable.
- Start Slow
Begin by brushing a few teeth at a time, focusing on the outer surfaces of the canines and back molars where plaque tends to accumulate. Use gentle, circular motions. Aim for just 15-30 seconds at first. Stay on the outside surfaces of the teeth. Dogs and cats do not like having the insides of their mouths touched. It will take a lot of times brushing their teeth before they allow the inside surfaced of their mouths to be brushed.
- Gradually Increase Coverage
Over time, work your way to brushing all of their teeth. Once they’re comfortable, aim for a full two-minute session. This will also take a lot of times brushing the teeth in order to build trust.
- Reward and Reinforce
After each session, reward your pet with a favorite treat, toy, or extra playtime. Positive reinforcement helps them associate brushing with good things.
How Often Should You Brush Your Pet’s Teeth?
Ideally, you should brush your pet’s teeth daily. However, every other day can significantly reduce plaque buildup and improve oral health. Once a week is the same as not brushing their teeth at all!
Supplemental Dental Care Tips
In addition to brushing, you can use:
- Dental chews or toys: These help reduce plaque through chewing.
- Water additives: Special additives can promote oral health when added to your pet’s water bowl.
- Professional cleanings: Regular check-ups with your vet can catch any dental issues early and ensure a thorough cleaning when needed.
- Visit the Veterinary Oral Health Council Website for approved products! www.VOHC.org
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
- Resistant pets: Take it slow and use plenty of rewards. Short, frequent sessions can help build trust.
- Bad breath: Persistent bad breath might indicate an underlying issue—consult your veterinarian for a Comprehensive Oral Health Assessment and Treatment (COHAT) plan that includes x-rays of the entire mouth.
- Difficulty reaching back teeth: Use a smaller toothbrush or long-handled toothbrush for better control.
Conclusion
Brushing your pet’s teeth might take some practice, but it’s one of the most impactful things you can do for their health. Start small, be patient, and celebrate your progress. With time, you’ll have a happier, healthier pet—and one with a sparkling smile to match! Contact us at Animal Dental Care & Oral Surgery Colorado Springs if you have questions or concerns about your pet’s dental health.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (01/03/2025) Photo by Krista Mangulsone on Unsplash
