Enzadentâ„¢ Enzymatic Toothpaste
GENERIC NAME:
Dental toothpastes and gels
GENERAL DESCRIPTION:
Your veterinarian has prescribed a Dental toothpaste or gel for at-home use in order to prevent or the formation of dental plaque and calculus on your pet’s teeth and to help maintain oral hygiene. Use a Dental toothpaste or gel every day. Veterinarians often send home a Dental toothpaste or gel with patients immediately following dental procedures in order to prolong the effects of the teeth cleaning. Dental toothpastes and gels are available in several sizes.
WHAT IS THIS PRODUCT?
- There are a wide range of ingredients found in these products: acetic acid, chlorhexidine, enzymes, sodium hexametaphosphate, zinc, etc. Most offer flavors palatable to dogs and cats.
- Dental toothpastes and gels are sold without a prescription (OTC/over the counter) but should be used under the direction of your veterinarian who can advise you on a complete oral hygiene program for your pet
- Used on the teeth and gums (large amounts are not meant to be swallowed by your pet)
REASONS FOR PRESCRIBING:
- To clean pet’s teeth and gums
- To prevent plaque and calculus formation
Using an Dental toothpaste or gel is an important part of good oral hygiene for your pet. Effective oral hygiene can prevent the development or progression of periodontal disease and maintain good gingival health in your pet.
Within hours of a professional dental cleaning, plaque, an invisible bacterial slime, will form on the tooth surfaces. Daily brushing of the teeth with a soft-bristled nylon toothbrush will help remove this plaque and also massage the gingiva, improving the gingival health of your pet.
If brushing is a new experience for you and/or your pet, be patient. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush.
Sample sizes may be available for you to try.
Proceed slowly and gently and use plenty of petting and praise. Begin by gently handling your pet’s mouth a few minutes per day. After your pet has gotten used to this type of attention for a few days, gently hold the mouth, lift the lip on one side and begin brushing using a circular motion. Initially, brush only a few teeth and reward your pet with lots of positive praise. Increase the number of teeth brushed gradually each day. By making the teeth cleaning procedure a happy event, your pet will request this attention and not let you skip a day!
Apply daily or as directed by your veterinarian. Your veterinarian may give you specific directions; follow this professional advice closely.
Be sure to praise your dog to increase her compliance with this care. By making the teeth cleaning procedure a happy event, your pet will request this attention and not let you skip a day!
WHAT ANIMALS SHOULD NOT USE THIS PRODUCT?
- In order to not do any harm to your pet, home care products should only be used on pet’s who have received (and passed!) a thorough oral examination
- Animals with a known hypersensitivity or allergy to any ingredients in this product
WHAT IF A TREATMENT IS MISSED?
If a treatment is missed, perform it as soon as you can. If it is already time for the next treatment, skip the missed treatment and go back to the normal schedule.
STORAGE AND WARNINGS:
Store at controlled room temperature.
Keep this and all medication out of reach of children and animals.
POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS:
- If you notice any unusual symptoms, discontinue use and contact your veterinarian
OVERDOSING?
Do not allow your pet to swallow large amounts of this product.
WHAT TO TELL/ASK A VETERINARIAN BEFORE USING THIS PRODUCT?
Talk to your veterinarian about:
- When will your animal need to be rechecked
- What tests or procedures may need to be performed prior to and during treatment with this drug
- What are the risks and benefits of using this drug
Tell your veterinarian about:
- If your animal has experienced side-effects on other drugs/products
- If your animal has experienced any other medical problems or allergies now or ever
- All medicines and supplements that you are giving your animal or plan to give your animal, including those you can get without a prescription. Your veterinarian may want to check that all of your animal's medicines can be given together.
WHAT ELSE SHOULD I KNOW?
Remember, home care is not a substitute for regular professional examinations and treatment, just as it isn’t enough for the human dental patient. Regular professional exams and treatments are still important to the overall health of your pet.
As with all prescribed medications, this product should only be used on the animal for which it was prescribed.
This is just a summary of information about Dental toothpastes and gels. If you have any questions or concerns about Dental toothpastes or gels or the condition(s) for which it was prescribed, please contact your veterinarian.
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