| Dogs are also susceptible to tooth and gum disease, just like their
human owners. They get cavities, buildups of plaque or tartar, chipped or broken
teeth, and gum disease. A regular dental routine, just as a regular grooming routine
should be introduced at an early age to help prevent problems in the adult years.
In addition to the annual check by your veterinarian a dog's owner should check
and clean their dog's teeth regularly. Start by gently pulling back the dog's
lips and check the gums and teeth. Healthy gums are firm and pink. Pale gums may
indicate problems, relating to tooth or health problems and should be checked.
If the gums have sores or swellings, this also should be checked by your veterinarian.
The teeth should be free from stains and buildup of plaque or tartar. Check for
broken or chipped teeth and sores on the tongue. If you notice any of these problems
your dog should be seen by your veterinarian. To start your teeth cleaning
routine, you must first get your dog comfortable with having its mouth opened
and its teeth and gums touched. Once you have accomplished this, then begin cleaning
the teeth and gums using either a rough facecloth or gauze squares wrapped around
your index finger. Rub downward from the gum to the tip of each tooth, just as
you brush your own teeth. As your routine develops, move up to coarser
cloths and eventually to a child's medium bristled toothbrush. Do not use human
toothpaste, as this preparation can irritate the dog's stomach. There is flavored
toothpaste designed for pets that can be obtained from your veterinarian or from
a pet food store. Another alternative is a half and half mixture of baking soda
and water. This is just as yummy to dogs as it is to humans. Any dental
health problems should always be immediately checked by your veterinarian. Regular
annual checks should never be neglected either. -------------------------------------------------
// ------------------------------------------------ Reprinted with permission
by Terrie Simpson. | 
