Dental Health and Teeth Brushing 
Please inquire about dental prophylaxis services and dental care kits at our clinic.

 "Flipping the Lip"

Pets get plaque, tartar, and periodontal disease, too. 85% of pets over the age of 3 years have some form of dental disease that requires treatment. We highly recommend that you "Flip the Lip" daily to check your pet's teeth and brush his/her teeth.



At the very least, dental treats (such as Hill's t/d diet or CET dental chews) given after meals will help maintain a  healthy smile for your pet.

• Pick a time of day that will become a convenient part of your pet's daily routine. Just before a walk or before a daily treat can help your pet actually look forward to brushing time. Take a few days to let both of you get use to the process. Follow with praise and a walk or treat each time.
  

• Start by offering your dog a taste of the veterinary toothpaste. The next time, let him taste the toothpaste, then run your finger along the gums of the upper teeth. Repeat the process with the tooth brush. Get the bristles of the brush along the gum line of the upper back teeth and angle slightly up, so the bristles get under the gum line. Work from back to front, making small circles along the gum lines. It should take you less than 30 seconds to brush your pet's teeth.

• Do not try to brush the entire mouth at first. If all that your pet lets you brush is the outside of the upper teeth, you are still addressing the most important area of periodontal disease prevention. If your pet eventually allows you to brush most of his teeth, so much the better.

• Even with the best tooth brushing, some dogs may still need an occasional professional cleaning, just like humans. By brushing your pet's teeth daily and curtailing the amount of periodontal disease, you may reduce the frequency and involvement of dental cleanings and provide your pet with a healthier, sweeter smile.