Hi

Usually my dog teeth maintainance consists of a weekly tooth brushing with enzymic toothpaste and use of bones. Banrigh is staying with us again and although her teeth arn't too bad her back ones have scale build up. I've purchased a dental scaler (as per picture from the canine chemist). However, before I do untold damage could anyone else advise if it's good idea or not to use one and if it's ok to use what's a good system?

I used to get dental tools from a dog owner who was a dental hygenist. First be sure the is comfortable laying either on a grooming table or bed..even floor - as long as you can easily sit or stand by the head and still maintain control.
Start with the molars...the very far back. Dry tooth with cotton cloth, use dental scaler - start at top of tooth, gumline - grasp firmly ang get tool under any scale bits..slide forward..going to bottom of tooth..any pieces of scale should very easily pop off. be sure not to cause bleeding..it becomes very easily to do ..also - find a dental pick..just has a pointy tip..can be used to break any more solid pieces of plaque.Once the teeth are clean...plenty of fresh raw bones help to prevent plaque from forming. Good Luck

Hi Cassandra

I've given your suggestions a go using the scraper. I'll have a look out for the dental pick as well. I think it has worked out all right for a first time. Managed with limited bleeding on the side I tackled. Banrigh was very co-operative and just remained lying on her bed. I'll keep going slowly through all the back teeth daily/weekly. Thanks very much for your help. Elise

You're very welcome Elise. Just a thought..9worked for me) next time either or one of your kids make an appt w/ your dentist or hygenist...ask for the dental pik...hey might give it you..or sell you one. Also, be sure to boil it in H2O prior to using, and every time thereafter (7 - 8 mins is good..or rub off w/ rubbing alcohol) Any new bacteria not generally found in a dogs mouth, can spread rapidly throughout their blood supply if you cut the gum too deeply. So...move firmly, but carefully down and away from the gum line. After a little practice...it will become 2nd nature. Good luck, glad your patient is so willing.
Cassandra

I use the dental scaler on my lot, only tend to use it when needed,
but have found it quite good, got mine from crufts a couple of years ago,
they also sold dubble sided ones, with a pick on the other side, only a couple of quid.