This article was co-authored by Lauren Baker, DVM, PhD. Dr. Lauren Baker is a Veterinarian and Assistant Scientist at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. With over 10 years in veterinary medicine, she specializes in the concept of “one health,” which uses insights from veterinary medicine to help human medical research. She holds a Ph.D. in Comparative Biomedical Sciences, a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, an MS in Comparative Biomedical Sciences, and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
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While keeping your dog's mouth clean and healthy is important, it is also important to keep your dog's toothbrush clean. After each use, rinse and remove any debris from the toothbrush bristles. You can also disinfect your dog's toothbrush with a vinegar solution. Remember to store your dog's toothbrush in an open-air holder. This way, you can prevent the growth of mold and bacteria on your dog's toothbrush, which could lead to an infection.
Steps
Cleaning and Storing the Toothbrush
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1Use a separate toothbrush for each dog. Sharing toothbrushes can lead to an exchange of microorganisms. Use a separate toothbrush for each of your dogs to prevent infection or illness.[1]
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2Rinse the toothbrush after each use. After brushing your dog's teeth, rinse the toothbrush under warm water. Remove any toothpaste, food particles, and debris from the toothbrush with your thumb. You can also use a toothpick to remove smaller particles.[2]Advertisement
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3Store the toothbrush in an open-air holder. Place your dog's toothbrush upright in its own open-air holder. Do not store it in a drawer or a closed container. Closed spaces create moist environments where mold, bacteria, and microorganisms can grow.[3]
- Store your dog's toothbrush in a separate holder to prevent cross-contamination with your toothbrush.
Disinfecting the Toothbrush
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1Pour ½ cup (120 ml) of water into a glass. Then, add in a ½ cup (120 ml) of white distilled vinegar to make a 50% vinegar solution.[4]
- Vinegar is a natural disinfectant that will not harm your dog.
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2Soak the toothbrush for 30 minutes. Place the head of your dog's toothbrush into the glass with the mixture. Let it sit in the mixture for 30 minutes. Remove the toothbrush after 30 minutes, and rinse it well with warm water.[5]
- Disinfect your dog's toothbrush every four to six weeks, or as needed.
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3Replace the toothbrush. When you can visibly see discoloration, a buildup of residue, and a matting or fraying of the toothbrush bristles, then it is time to replace your dog's toothbrush with a new one. Your dog's toothbrush should look clean and straight at all times.[6]
- Try to replace your dog's toothbrush every four months.
- You can also purchase a pack of disposable toothbrushes at your local pet supply or grooming store, or online.
References
- ↑ http://www.ada.org/en/about-the-ada/ada-positions-policies-and-statements/statement-on-toothbrush-care-cleaning-storage-and-
- ↑ http://www.ada.org/en/about-the-ada/ada-positions-policies-and-statements/statement-on-toothbrush-care-cleaning-storage-and-
- ↑ http://www.ada.org/en/about-the-ada/ada-positions-policies-and-statements/statement-on-toothbrush-care-cleaning-storage-and-
- ↑ http://www.scielo.br/scielo.php?pid=S1806-83242010000100005&script=sci_arttext
- ↑ http://www.scielo.br/scielo.php?pid=S1806-83242010000100005&script=sci_arttext
- ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/2014/06/wash-it-soak-it-pitch-it-4-tips-for-a-clean-toothbrush/
About This Article
To maintain good dental hygiene for your dogs, use a separate toothbrush for each dog. After each use, rinse the toothbrush with warm water and be sure to wash away any toothpaste and loose food particles stuck in the bristles. You can remove small or particularly stubborn particles with a toothpick. When you’re not using the brush, store it bristle-side up in an open container so it can air dry. Don’t keep it in a closed container, since this can promote the growth of mold and bacteria. You should also store your dog’s toothbrush in a separate container from your own to avoid cross-contamination. For advice from our Veterinarian co-author on how to disinfect your dog’s toothbrush, read on!
