Feb. is Pet Dental Month! What are you doing for their teeth?

[TinyAlbinoDancer]

AVMA Press Release - February is National Pet Dental Health Month

Since February is Pet Dental Month, I thought this would be a good time to discuss dental health, share tips and tricks, and maybe even set some goals for improving our dog's dental health.

I have been brushing my little dogs teeth on and off for maybe the last year or two. We use a Hartz battery-operated toothbrush that I purchased at Target (and can't find anymore ). We never ended up using the whole "battery-powered" part (lol), but the size of it is just right. We use vanilla mint flavored toothpaste (I can't remember the brand right now, but the main thing is it has no added sugars or artificial colors etc.). I've found that just brushing regularly with toothpaste does cut down on existing tartar and improve their breath.

This month I decided Missie was due for a dental, and with that we were going to make some committed dental health goals! So I started brushing teeth every night again (3 small dogs takes maybe 15 minutes. I'm still acclimating Aysa to the toothbrush, so no brushing yet). We brush with the doggie toothpaste, and then I apply an oral gel called Petz Life gel. I paid like $25 for a small bottle, but it does seem to be working! Missie did get her dental, with a 20% discount that my vet gives during Feb.

I tend to buy all dental treats, so we bought some dental rings and edible nylabones as well.

So what do you do for your dog's dental health? What have you found to be effective or not-so-effective? Are you ready to make some goals for improving your dog's dental health? Come on in and share!

[lakotasong]

I give my dogs C.E.T. HEXtra Chews with Chlorhexidine (link). I also use ProDental Solution in their drinking water (link).

My dogs (and cats) get their teeth evaluated each year at their annual exams with my veterinarian. The clinic I use also offers a discount if you schedule a dental cleaning for your pet during the month of February. I think it's a great incentive.

Dental care is very important. When bacteria from periodontal disease travels into a pet's bloodstream, the lungs, heart, kidneys, liver and nervous system can be affected. These infections usually are treatable when caught at an early stage. However, if they are not caught in time, they can cause serious organ damage and even death.

If a pet needs teeth extracted, it is quite costly and sometimes requires sutures. Soft food will need to be fed for days or even weeks after the extractions, depending on the severity. If too many teeth are taken, a pet might need to be on soft food for the rest of its life.

It's better to get teeth cleaned early in the game than to let it go and end up with an enormous bill, hours of anesthesia, possible extractions and other health issues that can be caused by the bacteria.

For more information, check out the Veterinary Oral Health Council and the Pet Dental Homepage.