Organize your pet's oral care routine
Don't let being stuck at home stop you from keeping up with your pet's oral care. You can freshen your pet's breath, clean their teeth and improve their overall oral health without leaving the house by focusing on simple strategies that will prevent plaque and tartar formation in the first place.
Plaque is a sticky film composed of food, bacteria and saliva that forms on teeth after every meal. If allowed to sit on the teeth for a few days, the plaque hardens into a much tougher substance called tartar (also known as calculus).
Tartar is so tough that the only way to remove it is with a dental cleaning. That is why the best way to keep teeth healthy at home is by nipping the plaque and tartar formation in the bud.
Stopping tartar and plaque accumulation can be achieved with a few different methods:
- Brushing teeth: This is the best way to scrub away plaque—that is why we do it for our own teeth. If you brush your pet's teeth once a day, you will be sure to remove all the plaque before it hardens to tartar.
- Dental treats and chews: The simple mechanical action of chewing can help reduce plaque buildup on your pet's teeth. Some dental treats and chews contain anti-tartar ingredients as well.
- Therapeutic diets: Make every bite of food count with therapeutic dental diets. These specially formulated diets are designed to mechanically clean your pet's teeth with every kibble while also providing a balanced, nutritious meal. Therapeutic diets require a prescription, so be sure to speak with your veterinarian if you are interested in this option.
- Water additives: Water additives are much like a drinkable mouthwash that you add to your pet's water bowl. Daily use of water additives can help reduce bacteria, prevent plaque and tartar buildup and freshen breath.
- Dental gels: If your pet is picky about what is added to their water, a gel could be a good solution. The flavored gel is applied to your pet's teeth and gums after mealtime.
With so many options, there is a dental care solution that meets every pet's lifestyle and needs.
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