Food, exercise, and grooming often come to mind when you think of pet care, but how well are you caring for their teeth? Cute as they may be, our furry friends need a bit of help in the dental department. It is important to keep your pets’ oral health in tip-top condition by taking preventive measures at home and by consulting with your vet. Our animal-loving team at Kherani Dental at Aspen has gathered a few tips to help you keep your pet’s teeth as healthy as “paw-sible”!
- Make Oral Care Routine
In order to care for your pet’s teeth, you must first be able to spot any abnormalities. If you haven’t been caring for your pet’s teeth since they were a kitten or puppy, poking around in your pet’s mouth can feel uncomfortably foreign to them. It’s never too late to start, but try to be as consistent with inspections as possible. Cleaning their teeth daily is ideal, but aim for at least a few times a week. Your pet will gradually become more comfortable having your hands in their mouth and future cleanings will be less traumatic.
- Use the Right Dental Tools
Your pet should have a brushing routine similar to your own. Invest in a pet-friendly toothbrush and enzymatic toothpaste, as human toothpaste is toxic to animals if they swallow it. Your animal’s toothbrush should have very soft bristles and a long handle to allow you to reach the nooks and crannies of their teeth. Toothpaste for pets comes specially-formulated in flavors that will be appealing to cats and dogs, like chicken, beef, and bacon.
- Supplement with Beneficial Dental Chew Treats
Gnawing on dental chews can help eliminate plaque, break up tartar, and freshen your pet’s breath in between brushings. There are many products available on the market, so find one that your pet enjoys!
- Regular Professional Cleanings
At-home brushings can often prevent severe dental issues, but a professional examination is still necessary to promote optimal oral health. Dental exams and cleanings should take place annually. Most exams are done under sedation to allow the veterinarian to take X-rays and do a thorough inspection of your pet’s mouth.
Come Visit Us—We Don’t Bite!
Perform daily dental care for your pet, as well as for your own smile, to ensure you both have “purr-fect” oral health. Contact us today to schedule your biannual cleaning and checkup at Kherani Dental at Aspen.
