However, the mouth can be made comfortable and the infection can be controlled. Excellent dental hygiene and routine prophylactic care can keep a mouth healthy throughout an animals lifespan. Brushing your pet's teeth on a daily basis helps remove soft plaque before it becomes mineralized and hard. It is important to use special pet toothpaste as human type paste can be harmful if swallowed on an ongoing basis. Specially designed toothbrushes and finger brushes are available to make brushing more comfortable for you and your pet.
Some people use bandaging gauze wrapped around a finger for rubbing teeth and gums.
It is important to start gradually with lots of praise and positive reinforcement. Once a routine is established it is easy to maintain. There are other options . Dental chews that have a special enzyme action help work plaque off the teeth and gumline. Rope toys and dental kongs are tooth friendly toys that can make brushing fun.