Things to Consider when Caring for Your Dog's Teeth and Gums 

As a loving dog parent, you want your pup to live a long, healthy, and joyful life. But did you know that one crucial aspect of your dog's overall health often gets overlooked? That’s right—oral care! Just like us, our dogs can suffer from dental issues if their teeth and gums aren’t properly cared for. But don’t worry—keeping your dog’s teeth healthy doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
In this week's PetPax Co. Paper, we’ll explore various proactive ways to care for your dog's teeth and why these methods are much better than reactive dental care, which often involves costly and stressful vet visits.

Why Proactive Care is Better than Reactive Care

Before we dive into the different proactive care methods, let’s talk about why they matter so much. Reactive care, like professional dental cleanings, becomes necessary when your dog's oral health has already declined. These cleanings can be stressful for your dog because they often require anesthesia, and they can also put a serious dent in your wallet. Plus, the benefits of a professional cleaning are temporary. Without ongoing maintenance, you might find yourself back at the vet sooner than you’d like.
On the flip side, proactive care helps prevent dental issues from cropping up in the first place. By incorporating simple daily or weekly routines, you can significantly reduce the chances of your dog developing plaque, tartar, and gum disease. Not only does this save you money in the long run, but it also spares your dog from unnecessary discomfort and stress.

Proactive Oral Care Methods for Dogs

When it comes to proactive oral care, you’ve got plenty of options. Each method comes with its own set of pros and cons, so let’s break them down:

Dog Toothpaste and Toothbrush

Pros: Brushing your dog’s teeth with a dog-specific toothpaste is one of the best ways to keep those pearly whites clean. Regular brushing removes plaque before it turns into tartar and helps prevent gum disease. Plus, many dog toothpastes come in flavors like peanut butter or chicken, making it a treat for your pet.
Cons: Brushing can be a challenge, especially if your dog isn’t used to it. It takes patience and training to get your dog comfortable with the process. Also, be sure to use dog-specific toothpaste—human toothpaste can be harmful to dogs.
Limitations: The key here is consistency. If you don’t brush your dog's teeth regularly, you won’t see the full benefits.

Oral Care Water Additives

Pros: Water additives are a super convenient way to help maintain your dog’s oral health. Just add the product to your dog’s water bowl, and it works to reduce plaque and freshen breath. It’s easy to use, and most dogs won’t even notice it.
Cons: While effective, water additives may not be as thorough as brushing. They should be a supplement to, not a replacement for, regular brushing.
Limitations: The effectiveness of water additives can vary depending on the product and brand, and some dogs might be sensitive to the ingredients.

Dental Chews and Treats

Pros: Dental chews aren't just a tasty treat for your dog—they’re also a great tool for cleaning teeth. As your dog chews, these products help scrape off plaque and tartar. They usually come in flavors dogs love, so they’ll think they’re just getting a special snack!
Cons: Dental chews can be high in calories, so you’ll need to give them in moderation to avoid weight gain. Also, not all dental chews are created equal—some are more effective than others.
Limitations: Use dental chews as part of a broader oral care routine, not as the only method.

Oral Care Powders and Drops

Pros: These can be added to your dog’s food or administered directly into their mouth. They’re designed to reduce plaque and tartar and can be easier to use than brushing. Some powders are flavorless, so your dog won’t even know they’re there.
Cons: The effectiveness of these products can vary, and they might not be as effective as brushing. Some dogs may also be picky eaters and refuse food with added powders or drops.
Limitations: Consistency is important, and these should be part of a comprehensive oral care routine for your dog.

Dental Melts

Pros: Dental melts are a newer, innovative option in dog oral care. These small, dissolvable strips are placed on your dog’s gums or teeth, where they melt and release active ingredients designed to fight plaque and freshen breath. They’re incredibly easy to use and can be a good option for dogs that are resistant to brushing or other methods.
Cons: Some dogs might not like the sensation of the strip dissolving in their mouth, which could make them less cooperative.
Limitations: Dental melts should be used as part of a broader, regular oral care routine. They might not be enough on their own for dogs with significant plaque build-up or advanced gum disease.

Dental Wipes

Pros: Dental wipes are a quick and easy way to clean your dog’s teeth without needing a brush. They’re particularly useful for dogs who resist brushing or for pet parents who are short on time.
Cons: Wipes might not be as effective at removing plaque as brushing, especially in the harder-to-reach areas of your dog’s mouth.
Limitations: Dental wipes should be used in conjunction with other dental care methods for the best results.

Conclusion: Why Proactive Care is the Best Care

Taking the time to establish a regular oral care routine for your dog can seem like a big commitment, but trust us—the benefits are well worth the effort. By being proactive, you can help your dog avoid the discomfort and health risks that come with poor dental hygiene, as well as save yourself the financial burden of frequent vet visits. Whether you choose to brush your dog’s teeth, use dental chews, or try water additives, the key is consistency and using a combination of methods for the best results.
Remember, your dog’s health starts with their mouth. A little effort now can save a lot of trouble—and expense—down the road. So why wait? Start your dog’s oral care routine today and keep those tails wagging and those teeth sparkling!
Written by Rhea Chandrachud