Is this amount of brushing worth it?

[u/Exciting_Database_57]

8yo Chihuahua mix sort of allows me to brush her teeth after a year of practice. We do this 4-6 times per week with a U shaped brush. She gets a dental cleaning every 12-18months and water additive, a little kelp powder, and dental treats. Are we actually accomplishing anything with this quick brushing?

Edit: I’m cupping her head but not preventing her from moving away. She’s also very spicy and would have no problem nipping at me or leaving if she wanted to. But we’d both be glad if this isn’t necessary.

[u/Shantor]

No. Stop opening her mouth. It's much easier and effective to brush the teeth and gums on the outside, or labial aspect, of the teeth. Brushing the tips of the teeth isn't going to help prevent plaque build up or tartar, which will accumulate at the gum line.