How do I Brush My Pet’s Teeth?

We all know how important oral health is.  We are bombarded every day with toothy-grinned models for Colgate toothpaste on TV, images of a smiling patient tilted back in a dental chair in the paper, & voicemails letting us know we’re due for our 6-month dental check-up.  If that’s not enough, now you’ve got us discussing the major health benefits of oral care at your veterinary office!

A seemingly daunting task & words spoken at our practice every day…

How do I brush my pet’s teeth?

Here at Hillcrest, we recognize both the importance of oral health care as well as an owner’s struggle to provide this care. Below is a gentle & effective way of introducing tooth brushing to your pet in a way that’s easy to manage for the both of you!

What you will need:

  • Pet toothpaste (made without Fluoride)
  • Gauze squares, cotton swab
  • Finger toothbrush & /or a regular soft bristled toothbrush
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Week 1:

  • Around the same time each day for 1 week (so it becomes an enjoyable routine), place a small amount of pet toothpaste on your finger and let your pet lick it off
  • This will help develop a habit where your pet will seek out the tasty treat & attention
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Week 2:

  • Place a small amount of pet toothpaste on your finger and gently slide your finger onto & against Fluffy’s gums and outsides of their teeth with a circular motion
  • Start slow & do a little more each time
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Week 3:

  • Now, use a cotton swab or wrap a gauze square around an index finger & place a small amount of pet toothpaste on it
  • Rub their gums & the outsides of their teeth with a circular motion for ~ 30 seconds to be effective & keep it pleasant for the pet
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**If this is well tolerated by your pet, you may continue to use a cotton swab or gauze square and not go any further**

 Week 4:

  • Place a small amount of pet toothpaste on a finger toothbrush or regular soft-bristled toothbrush and gently brush against Fluffy’s gums & the outsides of their teeth for ~30 seconds

Imagine what our teeth would be like if we only brushed once weekly or monthly – SO be sure to repeat this each day to help keep your pet’s mouth not only smelling fresh but healthier!

Be patient and consistent – building a lifetime of habits takes time!

Written by Sarah Tremblay, RVT