Halitosis, or bad breath, is a problem that many of us will have at least once during our lifetime.

Fortunately, there are steps that we can take to improve the smell that escapes from our mouths when we talk and breathe. However, it is not just a purely human problem. Most instances of bad breath are caused by excess bacteria in the mouth - something which can also affect our pets. Your furbaby is just as likely to experience dental problems as you are, and if he suffers from decay, dental disease, or other similar conditions, chances are bad breath will be one of the first symptoms that you encounter.

Since your pet can't take responsibility for his own dental health, it is up to you as his owner to do so on his behalf. Here are our top tips for the best way to improve your pet's breath and make spending time together much more enjoyable for you both!

Brush Your Pet's Teeth Regularly

Brushing your pet's teeth is the most important activity that you can undertake to benefit your pet's dental health. This is due to the fact that cleaning his teeth prevents the number of bacteria from getting out of control which would cause him to experience bad breath. You can also prevent serious dental problems including decay and dental disease, which could eventually lead to health issues such as diabetes and heart disease for your furbaby. Ideally, you should aim for brushing his teeth for at least 30 seconds every day, but ensure you are doing it at least a couple of times a week or optimal dental health.

Check that There Is Nothing Stuck Between His Teeth

Your pet can't tell you if he has something wedged between his teeth and he can't floss either, meaning that if something does get stuck between his teeth, it is going to be there for a while - until you or your pet dentist in Gastonia, NC remove it. Unfortunately, over time this stuck object is going to become coated in odor-causing bacteria, causing your pet's breath to become stinky. If your furbaby has breath that turns your stomach, check his teeth to ensure you can't see anything stuck between them.

Give Dental Chews and Chew Toys

Chewing is great for your pet's teeth as the abrasive action acts like a toothbrush and helps to remove food particles, bacteria, and even plaque that has formed. Chewing also triggers his body to produce more saliva, which is ideal for washing these away and neutralizing any acids that form as a by-product of bacteria interacting with carbohydrates. There are loads of chew toys to choose from or opt for dental chews which are packed full of ingredients that are designed to boost your pet's dental health and improve how his breath smells!

Make Sure He Visits the Pet Dentist in Gastonia, NC as Recommended

Annual wellness checks are a standard part of your pet's preventative care. However, regular dental visits are also recommended as they give your pet dentist a chance to assess and monitor the health of your pet's teeth and mouth. This is important if your pet's teeth are to remain as healthy as possible and you are to prevent symptoms of dental problems including toothache, bleeding gums, and bad breath. Your vet in Gastonia, NC, or pet dentist can also perform an annual professional clean that aims to remove all plaque and calculus from your pet's teeth should be performed in addition to any brushing you can do at home.

Give Him a Diet of Products that Are Approved by the VOHC

Not all pet food products are created equal, and low-quality foods can actually exacerbate dental problems in your furbaby. Most vets and pet dentists recommend that you choose products that have been given approval by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) since these have been proven to help reduce plaque and tartar and be beneficial for your pet's oral health.

If you would like more advice on the best way to improve your pet's breath or to schedule an appointment for your pet please don't hesitate to call (704) 824-9876 and speak with our vets in Gastonia, NC.