How New Yorkers Can Get Those Doggy Smiles Sparkling

February is National Pet Dental Month, and that means it's time to pay some extra attention to your furry friend's pearly whites.

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One of the best ways to make sure your dog's teeth stay that way is to brush them regularly. That may not sound like a great idea but fear not my friend of the four-legged.  Dr. Buzby has got your back with these handy tips for brushing your dog's teeth.

What should I use to brush my dog's teeth?

The thing to remember is too brush all the teeth and use a little force. You can use a regular toothbrush for dogs, or you could consider pet dental cleansing pads. You could even use plain gauze or Q-Tips. The most important thing to remember is to use a little pressure and do it on a regular basis.

What kind of toothpaste should I use?

You might be thinking that it doesn't matter what toothpaste you use but you would be wrong. When it comes to toothpaste, choose one that's specifically made for dogs and is pet-safe. You'll find plenty of choices at the pet store or vet's office. The flavor (like poultry) could help your pup to make it through the brushing process, it's the actual brushing that does most of the work.

Can I use human toothpaste?

This one's a big no-no. Do not under ever use human toothpaste on your dog's teeth. Most human toothpaste have high levels of fluoride and could be toxic if swallowed on a regular basis by your dog.  Also, some human toothpaste have Xylitol, which is a sugar substitute that is very dangerous to dogs.

How often should I brush my dog's teeth?

In a perfect world, you would try to brush your dog's teeth twice a day after meals. However, we all know that isn't practical, so try to brushing them once a day. If you can brush their teeth a few times a week, that would be more then most people manage to do. The best thing you could do is start a routine and brush their teeth at the same time every day.

Which teeth should I brush?

Try the best you can to brush only the outside of your dog's teeth. Brushing the inside won't hurt them but the biggest concern is the plaque that is built up on the outside. Happy brushing, and remember, a healthy mouth makes for a happy dog!