Idea Exchange: The value of the good-for-your-teeth goody basket

After performing a dental prophylaxis, our technician meets with owners to discuss discharge instructions. Part of the conversation involves bringing out the good-for-your-pet's-teeth goody basket, which is filled with products to help keep patients' teeth sparkly white. It includes Enzadent toothpaste and toothbrush (VET Solutions), Prescription Diet t/d (Hills' Pet Nutrition), C.E.T. AquaDent (Virbac Animal Health) drinking water additive, and C.E.T. Enzymatic Oral Hygiene Chews (Virbac Animal Health). The technician advises clients that brushing is best and describes the role that other products have. The technician then asks clients what they think will work best for them, and we send that product home with them. Since clients get to choose, they are more likely to use the product, and pets get good home dental care.

Dr. Melisa Hicks

Long Beach, Calif.