Home Care

Want to learn more about how you can care for your pet’s dental health at home? You’re in the right place!

Plaque forms on teeth within hours of eating. The best day to prevent Dental disease is frequent removal of this dental plaque. Brushing teeth regularly (or using dental wipes) is the most effective thing you can do for your pets to keep their teeth healthy between dental cleanings.

See the video’s below to learn HOW to brush teeth as well as products that can help

Questions

  • How often should I brush?

As plaque builds up so quickly, daily brushing is best. Even if you can’t do it every day, brushing a few (3-4 times a week) can still be very helpful.

  • My pet is young and still has alot of baby teeth. When should I start brushing?

Puppies and kittens are learning new things EVERY DAY! They are MUCH more accepting of new things like teeth brushing and therefore you have a better chance that they will accept it as a part of their daily routine if you start early!

  • Are their any other products I can use for the days when I can’t brush the teeth?

There are many products that are marketed for dental health. Some are very helpful but will not take the place of brushing. Most have one job-to slow the progression of plaque to tartar. Plaque we can brush off, tartar we can’t, so they don’t take the place of brushing, but can work along WITH brushing.

Options for the days that you CAN’T brush

  • Dental Chews

  • Water additives

  • Powder (such as ProDen Plaque off)

To be sure you are using a dental product that has been proven to improve dental health, I strongly recommend using products with the VOHC seal. Check out more information about VOHC in the “Important Links” section of our website

How to Brush Your Pet’s Teeth

Your pet’s dental care starts at home. Here are some quick videos demonstrating how you can take care of your pet’s dental health at home!

Products to Help Remove Plaque

C.E.T.® Enzymatic Toothpaste
$14

  • Enzymatic toothpaste specifically formulated using an enzyme system for dogs and cats to reduce plaque, freshen breath, and ensure a clean mouth

  • Flavors we carry: Beef and Poultry

MAXI/GUARD® Oral Cleansing Wipes
$25

  • This taste free compound neutralizes offensive mouth odors, helps reduce the deposition of plaque and aids in gingival inflammation

  • The wipes are textured to assist in the mechanical removal of plaque, but not so rough to cause damage to the gum tissue

Check out these resources from PetDesk!

  • Five Common Toys That Can Damage Your Dog’s Teeth

    Some common pet toys can actually damage teeth over time, especially if your dog is an aggressive chewer. Here is a list of toys to watch out for.

    Download PDF
    pet chewing on a toy which can damage their teeth

  • Dental Scoring Chart

    A visual tool used to record a patient's periodontal health by assigning numerical scores to different aspects of their gums and teeth. Scores range from 0-4, with higher scores signifying more severe issues.

    Download PDF
    dog's teeth with a score of 0 on the dental scoring chart

  • 3 Reasons Why Extractions and Dental Surgery Are Important for Your Pets

    If your pet does need extractions or dental surgery, don’t worry. These procedures are safe and relatively painless when performed by a qualified veterinarian.

    Download PDF

After your pet’s procedure, we can provide you with a kit to help support their recovery, including:

  • WorksSoWell 1-TDC – a supplement for cats and dogs that supports their oral health, joint health, skin and coat health, and stamina & muscle recovery

  • Pamphlet – explaining what 1-TDC is, and why we provide it in our kit

  • Toothbrush – allowing you to continue care for your pet’s dental health at home!

Post-Procedure Take Home Kit – $

Links to more trusted resources on Pet Dental Care

Pet Dental Care

A broad overview of pet dental care, including causes of dental problems, what veterinary dentistry is, what you can do for your pet at home, and more!

Practical Dental Care Tips for Dogs and Cats

There are simple, down-to-earth steps to ensure your pet's dental health is within reach. Neglecting your pet's oral hygiene can lead to pain and health problems. Here are some easy-to-follow tips on how to care for your pet's teeth without overwhelming yourself or your furry companion.

Still Have Questions?

Check out our other resource pages for more helpful information, or feel free to contact us!