4 Steps to a Healthy Mouth – For Dogs

For dogs, dental health is extremely important. Dental issues are some of the most frequent health concerns that veterinarians see among our canine friends! It’s up to you to make sure Fido’s mouth stays in tip-top shape. Use these four steps from a Fort Myers, FL veterinarian to do just that:

Good Food and Fresh Water

Step one for a healthy dog mouth: provide a great diet and a steady supply of clean, fresh water. The right nutrients through food keep your dog’s teeth and gums healthy and strong, while water helps to rinse out the mouth and wash away leftover food particles and grime. Ask your vet for a recommendation on a food choice that suits your dog’s age, size, and breed.

Chew Toys

You may not have thought about chew toys as an important aspect of dental care, but that’s exactly what they are. Chew toys provide your dog with more than just hours of fun—they help give the teeth and gums a workout while your dog is playing with them, and they help to scrape away some of the loose plaque on your dog’s outer tooth surfaces. The action of chewing gets rid of plaque before it can harden into tartar, greatly improving your dog’s dental health and reducing the risk of serious problems down the road.

Brushing at Home

Brush your dog’s teeth at home on a regular basis. You’ll need a pet toothbrush and a canine-formulated toothpaste, available at pet supply shops and many retail outlets. To start, try massaging your dog’s teeth and gums with your finger; this allows Fido to get used to the brushing sensation. Slowly introduce the paste, letting your dog get acclimated to the smell and taste. When your pooch is ready, brush each area of the mouth with the paste and toothbrush. This will keep the entire mouth clean and help Fido’s breath smell fresh!

Veterinary Cleanings

Last but not least, make sure you have your dog examined at the vet’s office on a regular basis. Many dogs benefit from a professional dental cleaning—the procedure gets at the nooks and crannies of your dog’s mouth that brushing at home simply can’t reach. To learn more about the dental cleaning procedure that your dog might need, give your vet’s office a call.

Ready to schedule your dog’s next dental appointment? Contact your Fort Myers, FL vet clinic today!