The ability to perform a mouth examination on your dog is important as it helps identify dental problems and other problems in the mouth. This examination and tooth brushing does not come natural to dogs but with a reward based training this can become a natural routine for most dogs especially if this is started at an early age. 

Regular mouth examination and/or brushing makes it easier to identify signs of issues like tartar, oral discomfort, or any objects stuck between their teeth or the roof of their mouths. 

Causes of dental problems:

 A dog's mouth harbours bacteria and food particles that form plaque. If left unaddressed, over time, excessive plaque can harden into tartar. Tartar is a porous, rough substance that can form above and below a dog’s gum line. Tartar is much more difficult to remove than plaque and veterinary intervention is needed to do so. This often leads to additional oral problems like gingivitis and periodontitis (inflammation of the tissue around the teeth, often causing retraction of the gums and loosening of the teeth). 

What can you do at home? 

- Introduce tooth brushing and mouth examination to your dog at an early stage.  

- You can use a dog-friendly toothbrush or a specially designed finger toothbrush, and there are specific flavored dog toothpaste options available. 

- Try when possible to brush your dog’s teeth once a day.

- Avoid using regular human toothpaste, as it may contain xylitol and other chemicals which are toxic to dogs.  

- Offering your dog chews is a great way to clean the teeth in a natural way especially if your dog does not allow you to brush its teeth. As always there is a risk when dogs are allowed to express their natural behavior of chewing and these include fractured teeth and swallowing of large indigestible pieces of chews. Therefore, the risk and benefits as well as the dog's chewing behavior needs to be considered when going down this route and choosing the most appropriate chews. There are a variety of sources of chews available at vets, pet stores and butchers.

- There are some special diets that have been formulated to provide additional tooth cleaning when eaten, you could ask your vet or pet store about these.

How to brush your dog’s teeth? 

- Start by gently touching the dog's teeth with the brush, gradually increasing brushing time. Dogs may not like the sensation at first but be patient and remember to praise and reward your dog throughout the process.  

- Brush in a circular motion initially then vertically towards the inside of the mouth. This will clear away any dislodged plaque. 

- Brushing your dog’s teeth daily can help prevent tartar and plaque build-up which can lead to dental diseases.   

When should you consult a vet? 

- If your pet displays signs of discomfort or pain when you are brushing, you may need to consult your Vet for further investigation. 

- If your Pet is drooling excessively, has difficulty eating, appears in pain or has bad breath this may be a sign of a dental issue. 

- Any facial swelling