Using a warm salt water rinse or an oral gel specifically for dogs. If your dog's gums are already inflamed, you can use a warm salt water rinse or an oral gel specifically for dogs. A warm salt water rinse can help reduce swelling and inflammation of the gums and remove bacteria from the mouth.
The increased production of saliva will also kill bacteria in the mouth and wash it away. Give your dog lots of water to rinse debris away. If you can add doggy mouthwash to the water it will kill germs and freshen breath as well. These products are available from local pet supply stores.
We know the feeling! In addition to keeping your dog's breath minty fresh, this doggie mouthwash has antiseptic properties (thanks to the peppermint!) that will contribute to your dog's good dental health. To make the mouthwash, simply make edible peppermint oil and add a few drops on your dog's food or in their water.
You can use any method which will provide a slow stream of tepid water – this can be in the form of a sports water bottle, shower head or hose. Be extremely careful not to angle the water towards the back of your pet's throat or the back of their mouth – this can cause water to go into your pet's lungs.
Oral home care products that may remove plaque include dental treats, dental wipes, pet-specific toothpaste, or gels used in tooth brushing. Tooth brushing is considered the gold standard in oral home care.
Opting for healthy crispy treats made of fruits and veggies can help your pet chew away the plaque and tartar build-up. You could get them crispy celery, beetroots and carrots.
The Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) recommends daily brushing to destroy harmful bacteria in their mouths and prevent buildup from returning. Be sure to use products specifically intended for your pup since human toothpaste can be toxic for them — the VOHC has a handy list of recommendations.
Fortunately, the very low level of methyl salicylate in Listerine is non-toxic to dogs. However, Listerine Original has an alcohol content of 26.9%, which if applied directly to inflamed or irritated skin, can be painful. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian before medicating your pet.
CHLORHEXIDINE ORAL RINSE: This rinse provides antibacterial benefits lasting up to 12 hours. It is safe for pets and rarely causes any problems. The rinse is applied by squirting a small amount inside the cheek on each side of the mouth.
Be careful not to use too much vinegar, as it can be too acidic for your dog's mouth and cause irritation. It's best to start with a small amount and gradually increase the concentration over time. You can also add a small amount of apple cider vinegar to your dog's drinking water to help promote overall oral health.
For the best dog dental hygiene, brush two to three times a week to help keep tartar buildup in check. You can also keep your pup's breath fresh by rinsing their mouth regularly with a solution of 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1 teaspoon baking soda in 1 cup of warm water.
The unique bacteria living in your dog's mouth, coupled with the various bacteria-ridden things your dog may eat, are more than enough reason to regularly clean his mouth. A lack of regular dental care will lead to all sorts of health issues, including periodontal disease, halitosis, and tooth decay.
You should keep brushing your dog's teeth as part of a regular grooming routine. Ask your vet first - before you start cleaning your dog's teeth, it's always best to ask your vet to show you the best way to do this.
The Vinegar Institute recommends mixing 2 gallons of water with 1 cup of distilled white vinegar to use as a deodorizing rinse. To treat your pet, soak him well with plain water and pour the vinegar mixture over him. Be sure it gets into his coat.
If you're looking for a more natural way to brush your dog's teeth, consider using coconut oil. Coconut oil is safe for dogs to consume, and can help reduce plaque and tartar build-up on their teeth. To use coconut oil to brush your dog's teeth, simply rub a small amount of coconut oil onto their teeth and gums.
Oral mouthwash may help reduce bad breath
Many dental experts say that adding a water additive (or dental rinse) to your dog's drinking bowl each day can help improve their oral health.
If you look inside the dog's mouth, there will often be swelling and redness on the gums around the affected tooth. If swelling and infection has extended behind the eye your pet may react with a painful response if you attempt to open his mouth.
Coconut oil
Coconut oil is naturally antibacterial. It can help heal wounds, and it's a great remedy for cracked skin and paws as well as chapped lips. Additionally, some pet parents use it for hot spots, and to help clear up rashes.
#3: Apple Cider Vinegar
Its chemical composition makes it ideal for breaking down plaque and tartar on your dog's teeth, as well as refreshing his breath. All you have to do is add ½ teaspoon of raw, organic apple cider vinegar to your dog's water bowl, and you're all set.
Certain foods are more likely to speed up the build-up of plaque on dog teeth compared to other foods. For example, bacteria love carbohydrates from sugar, which means feeding your dog sugary foods could increase the build-up of plaque in their mouth.
We do not recommend scraping the plaque or tartar off your pet's teeth on your own, as it could damage the teeth's enamel, and it can also lead to other complications such as gum bleeding. We recommend a reputable and qualified provider to perform a dental cleaning procedure.
Just like hard treats, crisp fruits and vegetables like carrots, beetroots, and celery help dogs chew away the plaque and tartar build up. Many fruits and vegetables are high in vitamin C which provides protection to gums and other tissues from the risk of bacterial infections.