Keeping your dog’s teeth clean is an important part of their overall health and wellbeing. But when it comes to brushing their teeth, is it OK to use regular human toothpaste? There are a few things to consider before grabbing your own tube of toothpaste to clean your pup’s pearly whites.
The Potential Risks of Using Human Toothpaste
Human toothpaste contains ingredients that are meant to be safe for people but could potentially cause issues for dogs. Here are some of the ingredients to look out for:
- Fluoride – Fluoride is commonly added to human toothpaste to strengthen enamel and prevent cavities. However, if swallowed frequently, it can cause fluorosis (a condition that damages teeth and bones) in dogs. Small amounts from brushing should not cause fluorosis, but ingesting human toothpaste over time could pose a risk.
- Detergents/Foaming Agents – Detergents like sodium lauryl sulfate are added to create foam and give toothpaste its cleaning properties. However, they can irritate a dog’s gastrointestinal tract if swallowed.
- Artificial Sweeteners – Toothpaste flavored for humans contains artificial sweeteners like xylitol or sorbitol. Xylitol is extremely toxic for dogs and can cause dangerous drops in blood sugar as well as liver damage. Sorbitol has a milder effect but can still cause diarrhea and vomiting if large amounts are ingested.
- Abrasives – Ingredients like baking soda, hydrated silica, and calcium carbonate give toothpaste an abrasive quality to help scrub plaque. But dog’s teeth can be damaged by overly abrasive pastes.
So while using human toothpaste here and there probably won’t cause permanent harm, the risks above are good reasons why human toothpaste should not be a long-term oral care solution for dogs.
Benefits of Dog Dental Products
The good news is that toothpaste and oral rinses made specifically for dogs are widely available. Unlike human products, dog dental care items are formulated to be:
- Safe if swallowed
- Non-foaming
- Palatable flavors like poultry or peanut butter
- Gently abrasive
- Often without fluoride
- Sometimes containing ingredients to control plaque and tartar
This makes them a better choice for regular canine dental hygiene. Talk to your vet about recommended dog toothpaste brands and types, like gels, powders, or finger brushes.
Key Things to Look for in Dog Toothpaste
If you’re browsing dog toothpaste options, watch out for these key features:
- VOHC approval – This means the product meets standards for preventing plaque and tartar by the Veterinary Oral Health Council.
- Enzymes – Enzymes like glucose oxidase help prevent plaque.
- Antibacterial ingredients – Elements like chlorhexidine kill bacteria that cause plaque and bad breath.
- Calcium/phosphates – These strengthen tooth enamel.
- All natural – Natural pastes avoid chemicals and artificial ingredients.
Again, ask your vet for the best toothpaste tailored to your dog’s specific needs and dental health.
How to Brush Your Dog’s Teeth
Once you’ve chosen a dog-safe toothpaste, here are some tips for a successful brushing session:
- Start slow with a puppy, lifting lips to touch paste to teeth and praise/reward.
- Use a soft-bristle brush or finger brush designed for dogs.
- Apply a pea-sized amount of paste to the brush.
- Work gradually up to brushing the outer surfaces of all teeth.
- Go slowly and give lots of positive reinforcement!
- Aim to brush daily, but 2-3 times a week is beneficial if that’s easier.
With patience and the right technique, regular brushing with canine toothpaste can become an accepted part of your dog’s routine.
Other Dog Dental Health Considerations
While brushing goes a long way, also consider these other tips for complete canine dental care:
- Dental chews and treats – Look for VOHC-approved options to supplement brushing.
- Regular veterinary cleanings – Even with brushing, yearly professional cleanings are recommended (sometimes more for breeds prone to dental issues).
- Oral exams – Your vet should inspect your dog’s teeth and oral cavity at checkups.
- Urge chewing – Give safe, durable chew toys to satisfy chewing instinct and help clean teeth.
- Monitor diet – Hard kibble and specially formulated dental diets promote cleaner teeth.
- Consider sealants – These protective coatings applied by a vet can guard against cavities.
Conclusion
Caring for your dog’s teeth is a key part of their health. While human toothpaste seems like an easy solution, the ingredients and potency are geared for people, not canine mouths. Special toothpastes, oral rinses and gels made just for dogs are the safer way to clean your pup’s pearly whites. With the right products and proper technique, establishing an effective tooth brushing routine is possible – resulting in fresher doggie breath and better dental health!