Preventative Dental Care Recommendations at KAH

Tiffanie showcasing out dental care products

   When we think of dental care, we think of brushing and flossing our teeth twice daily and visiting the dentist for a professional cleaning every 6 months.  So why do we think that our pets don't need the same care to keep their teeth pearly white?

When it comes to dental care in our pets, brushing is always best.  Plaque hardens into tartar after 48-72 hours.  Once it has hardened, the only way to remove it is with a professional cleaning. So it is best to brush your pet's teeth at least once every other day.  Also you want to make sure you are using a pet safe toothpaste.  We recommend CET Enzymatic toothpaste.  The enzymes help to break down the bacteria in the plaque and it comes in three pet friendly flavors; vanilla mint, poultry and malt.

Dental care in pets can be intimidating.  You will have to slowly desensitize your pet to the toothbrush, the toothpaste and the act of brushing. To see a demonstration CLICK HERE.

What if your pet will not tolerate having their teeth brushed?  There are many other options for your pet's dental health.

Dentacetic Wipes-An abrasive pad impregnated with a chemical that disrupts the biofilm on the teeth

                              caused by plaque and bacteria.

Oravet Sealant-A waxy substance that is applied to the tooth surface weekly to decrease plaque from

                         sticking.

CET Oral Rinse-An antiseptic rinse that is applied to the tooth surface to inhibit plaque formation.

Maxiguard Oral Gel-An antiseptic gel that is applied to the tooth surface to inhibit plaque formation.

Greenies Treat*-A dental bone/treat that mechanically cleans the teeth.

Tartar Shield Rawhide*-A dental bone that mechanically and chemically cleans the teeth.

CET Chews-A dental bone/treat that mechanically and chemically cleans the teeth.

CET Veggiedent Chew*-A dental bone that mechanically cleans the teeth.

Science Diet Oral Care*-A diet that is formulated to mechanically clean the teeth.

Hill's Prescription Diet T/D*-A diet that is formulated to mechanically clean the teeth.

*These products are certified by the VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council)

If you have any questions about the products mentioned above, call your friendly veterinarians at Kingsbrook Animal Hospital in Frederick, MD for more information.