Dental Cleanser & Dental Sponges

Wash away plaque's odor-causing bacteria using these veterinarian-formulated chlorhexidine formulas. No-rinse liquid Cleanser Solution with drop-dispensing tip is a mess-free alternative to brushing, and when used with a sponge or toothbrush, can also provide some of the mechanical cleaning benefits you get from brushing. NEW Spray lets you target teeth and gums even more precisely. Use either formula as often as needed to give your dog's teeth and gums the attention they need while also keeping his breath peppermint-fresh. Each can be used as a mouth rinse when you're short on time, or with a toothbrush, a finger brush, or our gentle Dental Sponges for more effective cleansing. Sponges measure 5" long with a 5/8" x 3/4" sponge tip. For dogs and cats.

Also available in convenient Dental Clens® Pads for days when you're short on time or for travel.

Please click on "More Information" for directions and ingredients.

Active Ingredient:
0.1% Chlorhexidine Gluconate. Other Ingredients:
Carmine Color, Glycerin, Peppermint Flavor, Polysorbate 80, and Water.

Dental Clenser Bottle Solution
Drs. Foster & Smith Dental Cleanser helps promote healthy teeth and gums through regular use, as well as reduce bad breath and plaque build-up.

Directions for use:

Oral Rinse: Hold pet's head steady with one hand. Gently squirt Dental Cleanser between teeth and side of mouth, starting at one corner of mouth. Massage mouth over teeth, working cleaner over surface of teeth.

Tooth Brushing or Swabbing: Pour small amount of cleanser in a small dish or cup. Hold pet's head steady with one hand, dip toothbrush or swab into solution and gently brush teeth. Dip brush in cleanser as needed.

Dental Care Shouldn't Be Like Pulling Teeth

Because our pets can't brush their own teeth, it's up to their owners to ensure their pets get the oral care they need. Trouble begins when food particles and bacteria build up in the mouth forming plaque and tartar, which leads to gingivitis and severe periodontal disease. Periodontal disease leads to tooth decay, bad breath, bleeding gums, and in severe cases, tooth loss. Even more complications may arise when the bacteria from the mouth enter the pet's bloodstream, possibly resulting in damage to the heart, liver, kidneys, and lungs. Monitor your pet's oral health and contact your veterinarian if you have concerns.

The American Veterinary Dental Society recommends three steps for pet oral health:

1. Take your pet to a veterinarian for a physical exam, which should include a thorough dental exam, at least once a year.
2. Start a regular home dental care routine. This includes brushing your pet's teeth with toothpastes formulated especially for pets such as Drs. Foster & Smith's Enzymatic Toothpastes (item #35276 or #35277) and wiping his teeth with convenient Dental Clens Pads (item #8523).
3. Rawhide is also a great complement to a regular dental routine.

Teaching your pet to accept a regular dental program early in his life is by far the easiest way to keep plaque at bay. Use the following guidelines to clean your pet’s teeth and do it regularly.

1. To get your pet accustomed to having something in his mouth, start with a piece of gauze or damp washcloth wrapped around your index finger. Use a gentle circular motion.
2. Once he is used to this, advance to a soft nylon toothbrush, a finger toothbrush, a dental sponge and Dental Cleanser or Dental Clens pads. What you use depends on your dog’s temperament.
3. Use a toothpaste formulated especially for dogs, such as Drs Foster & Smith Enzymatic Toothpastes.
4. If your dog already has inflamed gums, use Dental Guard with chlorhexidine and change to regular pet toothpaste after the inflammation is gone.
5. Use Dental Clens pads to clean mouth folds of harmful bacteria.