posted 12-12-2003 04:02 AM         

A diet change could be in order as well. Kibble does nothing toward keeping a dog's teeth clean. Raw food and raw bones (do research on bones before giving them to your dog - some are not safe) help keep the teeth clean in the wild.

This from Whole Dog Journal (you have to subscribe to get the whole article - there's a free 14-day trial as well):
"Regardless of whether you are feeding a raw diet, canned food, or kibble, consider feeding your dog a raw bone each week – it will work wonders toward keeping his teeth clean and his oral environment in balance.

In addition, feeding fibrous vegetables such as unpeeled organic carrots, broccoli, or celery (at mealtime or as snacks) can serve as natural, probiotic, enzyme-rich flosses. Leafy green vegetables and kitchen fresh herbs (parsley, dill, etc.) can also be mixed with the food, to contribute antioxidant, breath freshening chlorophyll.

It is also wise to add a good digestive enzyme powder and a probiotic supplement (acidophilus, bifidus, etc.) to each meal, as these measures will greatly help with the maintenance of healthy bacteria and pH levels in the mouth. Animal Essentials, Dr. Goodpet, PetGuard, and Prozyme are among my favorite brands."

There are also some herbal remedies that I have yet to try.

For early stage infections (swollen gums, etc):

DISINFECTANT HERBAL GUM FORMULA
Combine the following herbal tinctures: 1 part myrrh tincture; 1 part fennel tincture; 1 part thyme tincture; 1 part goldenseal tincture. With a clean cotton or foam swab, wipe this mixture across the outer (lip side) surfaces of your dog’s teeth and gums once or twice daily.

For freshening breath and improving digestion (and decreasing flatulence):
HERBAL FRESH BREATH & TUMMY FORMULA
Combine the following: 2 tbsp. dried parsley; 1 tbsp. dried peppermint; 1 tbsp. ground fennel seed; 1 tbsp. dried chamomile; 1 tsp. minced, fresh ginger root. Bring 16 ounces of water to a boil in a glass or stainless pot. Add all of the above ingredients, stir well, and reduce to a low simmer for 15 minutes. Allow to cool, then strain and press through a mesh sieve. To use, draw a small amount (10-20 drops) into
a squeeze dropper and squirt directly into your companion’s mouth. If needed, add 1-2 tbsp. of honey to the completed 16 ounces of formula to improve palatability.

Jamiya

[This message has been edited by Jamiya (edited 12-12-2003).]

posted 12-12-2003 05:41 AM         

I give them a Denta Bone once a week. I've tried the Greenies, but they don't work as well.