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Get your pet adjusted to the reality that you will be touching the mouth,
teeth, and gums.  This may require several days of gentle massaging of
the outer mouth, and eventually slipping your finger into the pet’s mouth
along the gum line.

Start slow, and let your pet dictate the amount of time that you massage
the outer mouth.  This should be done when both you and your pet are
relaxed.  Possibly while you are sitting on the floor watching television,
you can encourage your dog to lay next to you with their head in your
lap.  Do this often in short sessions for at least three to five days.

Once your pet has grown comfortable with you at the outer mouth, slip
your finger into the mouth along the side of the gums.  Try this one side
of the mouth at first, and then go back to gently massaging the outer
mouth.  Since your pet has already become comfortable with outer
mouth massage, this will relax him/her after the inner mouth massage.  
You should perform this step for several days as well.

Next, using doggie dental toothpaste, place a small amount onto your
finger and allow your pet to view this as a treat.  Once your pet licks this
off of your finger, this step is complete.  You should do this once or twice
daily for several days.

Now that your pet has grown accustomed to viewing the toothpaste as a
treat, place a small amount onto your finger and slip your finger into the
side of your pet’s mouth and rub the toothpaste along to tooth/gum
surface of one side of the mouth.  Make sure to reward your pet with
your voice.  This will signify to your pet that he/she is supposed to let
you do this and it is good.  This step may take up to 14 days to develop.  
It is important that you take your time, be consistent, and patient.

Once the pet has become accustomed to this entire process, it is now
time to introduce the toothbrush.  The best results come when you can
repeat the entire process.  In other words, substitute the toothbrush for
your fingers.  Always use the toothpaste on the toothbrush to help ease
the acceptance of the toothbrush.  Praise the pet after each session.

Remember, do these steps in frequent but short intervals.  Eventually,
you can extend the period of time of brushing the entire mouth once
daily for the life of the pet.  It is recommended that you spend
approximately 20-45 seconds on each side of the mouth, and 10
seconds on the front teeth of the mouth.  Since tartar accumulates more
on the rear upper molars, make sure to concentrate on this area.

By brushing your pet’s teeth daily, you can ensure a healthy oral cavity.  
A healthy oral cavity can reduce other related diseases that can detract
from the overall health of your pet.  Not to mention kisses from your pet
are much more enjoyable when their breath is fresh!
How to brush your dog's teeth
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