On the occasion of Pet Dental Health Month, it is important to divert the attention towards the pearly whites of pets. Brushing their teeth is the first and foremost step to reduce the plaque and tartar build-up to keep the dog's mouth healthy and fit. It is also important to take them for regular veterinary dental examinations and brushing their teeth so that there is a minimum requirement of professional cleanings that requires general anaesthesia. Let us now divert our attention to the dental tips for dogs:

Sniff the breath of your dog. Normally it is not fresh-smelling, like human beings. But if it is especially offensive, coupled with vomiting, loss of appetite, excessive drinking or urinating it is time to take the dog to the veterinarian.

Lift the lips of the dog and scrutinise his gums and teeth. Remember, the gums need to be pink and not red or white. They should not show any signs of swelling. The teeth should be clean without any brownish tartar.

Some of the signs of oral disease in dogs include:

Bad breath

Cysts under the tongue

Excessive drooling

Inflamed gums

Loose teeth

Tumours in the gums

The dog's teeth are common ground for bacteria and plaque-forming foods, which can harden to become tartar leading to gingivitis, receding gums and tooth loss. The only workaround for this situation is to regularly clean the teeth.

Get a toothbrush for dogs and not people and toothpaste especially for canines. You can also make the paste using baking soda and water, but never employ fluoride for dogs under six months of age because it can interfere with their enamel foundation. Also, never use a human toothpaste, as it can irritate the stomach of the dog. Ask your veterinarian to suggest toothpaste for dogs.

Massage the lips with the fingers in a circular motion for 30 to 60 seconds once or twice a day for a few weeks. Then move to teeth and gums. Once the dog feels comfortable use dog-formulated toothpaste or a paste of baking soda and water on the lips to get him accustomed to the paste. Then introduce him to the toothbrush. Remember, the toothbrush needs to be smaller than a human toothbrush with softer bristles.

Ask your veterinarian to suggest some chew toys for your dog as it can assist in making the teeth of the dog strong. It can be nylon, rawhide and rubber chew toys. Gnawing also reduces the overall stress level of the dog, prevents boredom and gives him an appropriate outlet for his natural need to chew.

Consult with your veterinarian about the best dry food for your furry pal that can slow down the formulation of plaque and tartar. Never feed the dog table scraps instead give him treats that keep his teeth healthy.

You can get your own Pet Dental Hygiene Toothbrushes/Toothpaste Kit here ...