Dental care means more than fresh breath.  If your dog develops gingivitis that escalates into periodontal disease, his overall health can be affected.

Dental care for pets isn't just the latest fad.  Teeth brushing, dental checkups and professional  cleanings all will help prevent the most common of all dog ailments--periodontal disease.  It's best to start a brushing routine when your dog is a puppy.  Along with daily brushing, feed biscuits or dry food to help reduce plaque and tartar buildup.  Watch for signs of infection in your dog's gums, and take him to your veterinarian at least once a year for a dental checkup.   If you just adopted an older dog who hasn't had regular dental care, an oral exam can tell if a dental cleaning may be necessary

1.  Start with a play session.  A fun introduction to any type of health-care routine will make it much easier for both you and your pet.  To begin, gently hold your dog's head while you examine his teeth an gums.  If he resists, stop and try again the next day.   This daily examination process will help him get used to the idea of your fingers exploring his mouth.  When your pet allows you to do this exam, praise him.

1.  Open your dog's mouth
    and examine his teeth
    and gums.

2.  When he's comfortable with the exam, introduce the toothbrush.  You might want to buy a brush made especially for dogs.  (If your pet consistently resists the toothbrush, you may want to start with a finger brush, available from most veterinarians.)  Apply a toothpaste that is formulated for dogs, and gently begin the brushing routine.  Brush the molars, angling the toothbrush so you can also get to the surrounding gums.  Pet dentifrice is available in may flavors that appeal to dogs (malt, poultry), but if your pet balks at the toothpaste, try using just a wet toothbrush for a few days, or use something on the brush that may be more enjoyable (a dab of peanut butter or cream cheese).  Try to reintroduce the toothpaste after he's more comfortable with the activity.

2.  Angle the brush to
    reach both the teeth
    and gum line.

3.  After you finish with the molars, more to the front of the mouth and brush the canine and incisor teeth.   Always follow a pattern so your dog will know what to expect each time.  Be sure to end each session with playtime or a treat.

photos and partial content from the Iams Company publication Your New Dog

3.  Brush in a consistent
    pattern,and reward your
    pet for his patience.