Brush 'N' Bark: It's Canine Dental Health Month

Smile (if you're a dog).

The American Pet Products Manufacturers Association is celebrating National Pet Dental Health month in Februrary.

The organization says more dog owners than ever before have purchased toothbrushes and dental products for their canine friends.

But industry experts remind owners the importance of taking good care of their pet's teeth.

"Many people don't realize how much dental problems can affect a pet's health," said Bob Vetere, the group's managing director. "Tartar build-up, cavities, fractured teeth or impacted baby teeth can all lead to bigger issues."

Some tips for pet dental care include:

Begin a dental care regimen at home. Feed your pet specially formulated foods that control plaque and tartar.
Schedule regular veterinary checkups to monitor dental health.
Do not use toothpaste formulated for humans, which can upset pets' stomachs.
Give your pet appropriate toys to prevent teeth fractures.
Don't wait for an annual checkup if you suspect a problem. Take your pet to the veterinarian for a dental exam.

In addition to proper vet care and regular cleanings, pet product manufacturers offer a greater variety of products to make dental health care easy to manage for pet owners.

SynergyLabs makes Dental Fresh. When added to a pet's water bowl, the tasteless, odorless liquid helps reduce the formation of tartar and helps combat bad breath.

Hartz offers a wide variety of dental products that will help your dog's dental hygiene, including treats and chew toys that clean teeth.

Petosan has a double-headed toothbrush that hugs a dog's teeth, cleaning both inside and outside surfaces at the same time.