At Home Dental Care for Pets

Brushing your pet’s teeth at home is easy with a little practice. At-home dental care for pets helps fight tartar buildup, which can cause gum disease, root exposure, and tooth loss.

Puppies have 28 baby teeth and 42 permanent teeth. Kittens start with 26 baby teeth and grow 30 permanent teeth. Puppies and kittens lose baby teeth between 4 and 6 months.

What You’ll Need:

Pet toothbrush
Pet-safe toothpaste (Never use human toothpaste. Ingredients like fluoride, hydrogen peroxide, and xylitol can harm your pet.)
How to Brush Your Pet’s Teeth:

Lift the upper lip and angle the brush along the gum line at a 45-degree angle.
Use circular motions to clean the outside of the teeth. Spend about 30 seconds on each quadrant.
If your pet is cooperative, brush the insides of the teeth.
Reward your pet with treats and praise.
Regular vet checkups are essential. Pets should get dental exams one to two times a year. Professional cleanings help prevent plaque, tartar, gum disease, and tooth loss.

Cost of Care:

Routine cleaning: $382
Dental disease surgery: $1,037 for dogs, $986 for cats
Pet health insurance is a great way to stay prepared. Call Klinger Insurance Group at 301-428-4939 or visit www.klingerinsurancegroup.com for more info or a free quote.