Dental Scraping Tools for Dogs

Just like you, your four-legged and furry best friend needs regular dental cleanings. Your veterinarian can take care of this for you, but if you want to try cleaning your dog's teeth on your own, knowing the types of dental scraping tools for dogs and how to properly use them can help you keep your pooch from developing gum disease.

  1. Tartar Scraper

    • When you go to a dentist, you've probably seen this on the tool tray waiting for you, too. The canine version is about 6 1/2 inches long and has scraping hooks on both ends. If you make sure that your dog eats at a mix of crunchy and soft dog food, and feed it dental treats, there should only be minimal tartar to remove at the annual cleaning.

    Tooth Scaler

    • The purpose of a tooth scaler is similar to the tartar scraper -- to keep tartar from building up on your dog's teeth. The scaler has a wider point on the end that is less sharp than the scraper's points. The scaler is designed for you to use every now and then as you check your dog's teeth for tartar between cleanings.

    Finger Toothbrush

    • If you brush your dog's teeth on a regular basis, you won't have enough tartar buildup to warrant the use of one of the metal scraping tools. There are several different canine toothpastes available for use with the toothbrushes.

    Dental Swipes

    • If you're a nervous about running a brush through your dog's mouth, another option is a dental swipe. If you wipe your dog's teeth with these a couple of times a week, you may not even need to use a toothbrush -- and the only time your dog will need to worry about a scraper or scaler would be at its annual cleaning.