Improving your dog's dental health: essential lifelong care

As dogs age, many suffer from the effects of a lifetime of dental neglect, leading to problems such as bad breath, gum disease, and painful teeth. Establishing a dental hygiene routine early is vital for preventing these issues and supporting your dog’s overall health and wellbeing. Although dental care for dogs is a relatively modern concept, responsible owners now recognise its importance and seek veterinary advice to maintain their pet’s oral health.

Start as you mean to go on: early prevention is key

When your dog is young with healthy teeth, it’s easy to overlook oral care, but preventative maintenance is the best way to avoid problems as they age. Starting a dental routine early makes it easier to acclimatise your dog to brushing, helping to minimise the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and unpleasant breath. However, it is never too late to initiate dental care practices, even with older dogs.

Brushing your dog's teeth effectively

Brushing a dog’s teeth might seem unfamiliar, but it is one of the most effective ways to prevent plaque and tartar buildup. Use a toothbrush specially designed for dogs along with a palatable canine toothpaste. The physical action of brushing cleans teeth surfaces and gums, while enzymatic toothpastes contain ingredients that reduce bacteria and plaque.

If your dog resists brushing, try to apply toothpaste directly as it still offers some benefit. Aim to brush or use toothpaste at least every other day, integrating it into your pet’s routine to foster acceptance.

Feeding for optimum dental health

Your dog’s diet influences their dental condition. Dry kibble can help reduce plaque as its texture gently brushes teeth during chewing, unlike sticky wet foods that may increase sugar exposure. However, not all dogs tolerate dry food well, and many require a mixed or wet diet.

Choose low-sugar foods and treats that promote dental health, such as raw bones or fibrous vegetables like broccoli, sweet potato, and squash. Specially formulated dental chews and hard dental kibbles can complement your care routine by physically reducing plaque buildup.

Additionally, there are supplements designed to be added to water, which are odourless and tasteless but aid in maintaining clean mouths.

Regular veterinary dental checks and professional care

Annual dental examinations by your vet during routine health checks are essential for early detection of issues like gingivitis, plaque, or infection. Advanced dental problems may require professional cleaning or tooth extractions under anaesthetic to relieve pain and improve oral health.

Preventative home care reduces the likelihood of needing costly veterinary dental treatments, many of which are not covered by standard pet insurance unless related to accidents. Always seek advice from your vet or veterinary nurse if you are unsure how to care for your dog's teeth.

Additional tips for long-term dental health

• Consider natural supplements such as ProDen PlaqueOff#4, a Scandinavian seaweed product proven to reduce plaque and tartar when used consistently for several weeks.
• Regularly inspect your dog’s mouth for any signs of discomfort, redness, swelling, or changes in breath.
• Maintain a calm and patient approach during oral care to build positive associations with teeth cleaning.

By combining consistent tooth brushing, appropriate diet, veterinary check-ups, and additional supplements or chews, you empower your dog to enjoy better oral health throughout their life, enhancing their comfort, wellbeing, and longevity.

For those looking to find a puppy or new dog, remember to approach acquisitions responsibly by choosing reputable breeders or adoption centres that prioritise health and welfare.