Dental Care Steps to Keep Pet’s Teeth Sparkling

October 19, 2022

Share this article

For most of us, our pets are more like our children. And just like human children, they need proper care with food, shelter, love, medical and dental care. Caring for your pet’s teeth is very important in their overall health. Brushing your pet’s teeth can seem like a daunting task, but our step-by-step guide will help you through the process. If you’re still thinking you’d rather leave it up to professionals, we’d be more than happy to assist you with a dental cleaning for your pet here, at our vet clinic. Visit https://andesstraleyvet.com/  for more information.

Must Have Items for Dental Care

As for brushing implements for pets, you have a few options. A regular toothbrush, which is quite similar to a human’s toothbrush, with softer bristles and an angled head to properly reach all parts of a pet’s mouth. A dual-headed toothbrush, which has 2 heads back-to-back, can brush fronts and backs of teeth at the same time. Another is a finger brush, which actually slips over your finger and allows you to brush each individual tooth. As for pet toothpaste, there are many options on the market in different flavors, and there are even several recipes that can be found online for making homemade pet toothpaste.

Time and Place

It’s best to set aside a time for cleaning pet’s teeth that will be relatively quiet, and in a location that is free of distractions. Teeth cleaning is usually not a pet’s favorite thing to do, especially in the beginning, so calmer is better for a good overall experience.

Introduction to Dental Care

Allow your pet to get used to the toothbrush and toothpaste slowly. Let them sniff it, check it out, maybe give it a taste, before diving in for a good brushing. The first few sessions of dental care for your pet might be best spent letting them discover, at their own pace, that there’s nothing to be fearful of.

Brushing

All right, your prep work is all done, and it’s time to get down to business. Before beginning, remember to praise your pet often throughout. Start with the top, hold your pet’s upper lip and brush the top teeth, front, back and sides. Take a break for some praise and encouragement. Next, move on to the bottom, hold your pet’s bottom lip and brush the bottom teeth, front, back and sides. Again, remember to praise often, as this will help your pet acclimate to this new routine, and learn to love it, or at least tolerate it.

We hope this guide has given you some insight into starting and maintaining your pet’s dental health. Again, we’d be happy to assist you and your pet with a dental cleaning at our vet clinic. Give us a call at (423) 378-4443 or submit an appointment request on our website to get your pet scheduled at https://andesstraleyvet.com/contact-veterinary-hospital/.

Recent Posts

By premier December 27, 2024
As pet owners, we know our furry companions can’t tell us when they’re feeling unwell. That’s why it’s crucial to pay attention to subtle changes in their behavior, habits, or appearance that could indicate a health issue. At Andes Straley Veterinary Hospital, we’re here to help you identify those signs and ensure your pet gets […] The post When to Take Your Pet to the Vet: Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore appeared first on Andes-Straley.
By premier December 18, 2024
The holiday season is a time for celebration, family gatherings, and festive decorations, but it can also bring unique challenges for pet owners. At Andes Straley Veterinary Hospital, we want to ensure that your furry family members stay safe and happy throughout the season. From glittering ornaments to tempting holiday treats, here are some essential […] The post Holiday Safety Tips for Pets appeared first on Andes-Straley.
By premier December 11, 2024
When it comes to leaving your pet in someone else’s care, their safety and well-being are every pet owner’s top priorities. Whether you’re heading out of town for a vacation or a work trip, choosing the right boarding option is crucial. Boarding your pet at a veterinary facility, like Andes Straley Veterinary Hospital, offers unmatched […] The post Why Boarding at a Veterinary Facility is Safer for Your Pet appeared first on Andes-Straley.
By premier December 4, 2024
As temperatures drop, our pets need extra attention to ensure they stay safe and comfortable during the winter months. At Andes Straley Veterinary Hospital, we understand how much your furry friends mean to you, so we’ve put together essential tips for cold-weather pet care. 1. Protect Those Precious Paws Cold weather can be harsh on […] The post Keep Your Furry Friends Safe This Winter appeared first on Andes-Straley.
By premier November 26, 2024
Keeping pets active indoors can be a challenge, especially on rainy days or for those living in small spaces. However, regular exercise is crucial for pets’ health, helping to prevent weight gain, reduce stress, and keep their minds engaged. At Andes Straley Veterinary Hospital, we know that pets need exercise just as much as they […] The post Creative Exercise Ideas for Indoor Pets appeared first on Andes-Straley.
By premier November 20, 2024
As we gather with loved ones this Thanksgiving to celebrate and enjoy a delicious feast, it’s essential to remember that our pets may face some unexpected hazards around the holiday festivities. Keeping our pets safe during Thanksgiving requires a bit of planning and mindfulness, but it can make all the difference in ensuring a joyful […] The post Keeping Your Pets Safe During Thanksgiving appeared first on Andes-Straley.
By premier November 13, 2024
It’s natural to want to show your love for your pet through food and treats. After all, those excited tail wags and purrs of appreciation feel rewarding! However, what starts as a way to pamper your furry friend can lead to unintended consequences. Overfeeding, whether through large meal portions, too many treats, or “people food” […] The post The Dangers of Overfeeding appeared first on Andes-Straley.
By premier November 6, 2024
Matted fur can be an uncomfortable and potentially painful problem for dogs, especially for those with long or curly coats. Without regular care, matting can quickly get out of hand. This can cause discomfort, skin irritation, and even restricting movement if the matting becomes severe. At Andes Straley Veterinary Hospital, we’re here to help you […] The post Preventing and Treating Matted Fur appeared first on Andes-Straley.
By premier October 30, 2024
As the crisp autumn air settles in, it’s time to embrace the festive spirit of Halloween. While this holiday brings joy and excitement for many, it’s important to keep in mind that some Halloween traditions can pose risks to our furry friends. We’ll explore ways to ensure a safe and enjoyable Halloween for your pets, […] The post Halloween and Pets: Ensuring a Safe and Spooktacular Celebration appeared first on Andes-Straley.
By premier October 23, 2024
Did you know that one out of three pets becomes lost in their lifetime, according to the American Humane Association? Did you also know that over ten million cats and dogs are lost or stolen annually in the U.S? Out of these, only 23% get reunited with family. This is why a pet microchip is becoming […] The post Pet Microchip: A Guide to How It Works and Its Benefits appeared first on Andes-Straley.
Show More