It is important that you maintain your pet’s oral hygiene as poor hygiene can lead to tooth infection, plague, tartar accumulation tooth loss, inflamed gums, and bad breath.    

Teething  Puppies and kittens are usually born with no teeth. Temporary teeth also known as deciduous teeth only start appearing at the age of 2-3 weeks. Permanent teeth will slowly begin to replace the temporary teeth at about 16 weeks.    

Signs of Good Dental Health  
1. Gums should be a healthy pink in colour with no redness or bleeding where the gums meet at the teeth.  
2. Breath should not smell bad.  
3. Temporary teeth are sharp & will look similar to each other.  
4. There should be no discomfort when eating.  
5. Teeth should be white & clean, not discoloured or with excessive plague and tartar built up  
6. Adult teeth are less sharp and will look different according to the type of tooth (incisor, canine, premolar & molar)    

Looking after their oral hygiene  
• Brushing your puppy’s or kitten's teeth at least once a day is recommended- Using a special toothbrush designed for cats and dogs with veterinary toothpaste is recommended. To get them familiar with having their teeth brushed, start from a young age and with practice and perseverance they will quickly get used to it.  
• Avoiding tartar build-up - Choose dry diet that have tartar control benefit like Royal Canin Dental Veterinary Diet, as it has a particular kibble size and contains substances that trap the calcium in the saliva, slowing the formation and deposits of tartar.  

Dental chews that slow down the formation of plaque and tartar by mechanical brushing effect on the teeth when they chew are another alternative. Dental chews must be the proper size for your pets to avoid a choking hazard. Ideally, the dog/cat should be given two or three of these dental chews a week to help prevent plaque and tartar build-up. 

Ask your veterinary team which type is best suited for your pet.  If you have any concerns about the condition of your pet’s oral health, then speak to your vet who will advise you.