As a loving pet owner, you take care of a wide spectrum of
your pup's needs, including vaccinations, socialization, grooming, feeding, and
exercise. One aspect you may have overlooked is the importance of canine oral
health. According to the American
Veterinary Medical Association
, your dog will likely have signs of dental
disease by age 3. Do not despair! Follow this guide to reverse the trend and
ensure a lifetime of dental wellness for your dog.
Know the Importance of Canine Dental Care
Dogs are susceptible to a variety of oral health problems.
Though not prone to develop cavities, common oral issues include: plaque,
scaling, infections, abscesses, and gum disease (periodontal disease). Not only
do these issues affect your pooch's teeth, but they have whole body
implications. Untreated periodontal disease can cause heart disease and can
also affect your pet's kidneys and liver. Bacterial build-up produces toxins
which your dog swallows, causing gastric issues.
Perform Routine Dental Care at Home
Fortunately, a thorough daily oral hygiene routine can
prevent and even reverse dental health problems. The best time for you to begin
these healthy habits is the day you bring your dog home. What is the second-best
time to start? Today! At any age, your dog can begin and benefit from daily
tooth care.
Dental Health Products
There are a variety of digestible chews and specially
designed toys that benefit oral health. Look for products designed to promote
adequate chewing, which aids in plaque removal.
Oral-Care Additives are placed daily in your pet's water
dish and can help freshen breath and prevent bacterial growth. Often odorless
and tasteless, they are an easy way to boost oral health.
Tooth brushing
No dental products are an adequate substitute for good
old-fashioned tooth brushing. Just as you would not go a day without brushing,
you should make it a part of your dog's daily routine. Establish this routine
with a few basic guidelines:
- Do not
use toothpaste designed for humans. Besides having unappealing flavors for
dogs, it often contains ingredients which are harmful or even fatal to
pets, like the sweetener xylitol. Specialty canine toothpastes have
doggy-desired flavors like liver and peanut butter, but water alone is
adequate for canine brushing.
- Use a
toothbrush designed for dogs. Choose one adequately sized for your breed's
mouth. Prepare to familiarize your dog with the brush before use.
- Ease
into brushing following positive training steps. Do not be surprised if
your efforts are met with initial resistance. Have plenty of high value
treats on hand to guide and reward your pet's behavior.
- Start
by lifting gums and touching your dog's teeth. Work up to the ability to
rub teeth and gums with your fingers.
- Once
your pet is comfortable with your fingers touching gums and teeth,
introduce the toothbrush and clean all surfaces of each tooth.
Watch for Signs of Poor Oral Health
Several indicators of oral problems and disease are
observable in your pet. Assess your dog for any of the following signs:
- Bad
breath
- Bleeding
gums
- Hardened
plaque
- Tooth
pain when chewing
- Excessive
drooling
- Mouth
sensitivity
Seek Veterinary Dental Check-ups and Services
If you notice any of the above problems, make an appointment
with your veterinarian. Your vet can diagnose signs of periodontal disease and
tooth decay. If necessary, your veterinary dentist can perform tooth
extractions.
Your pet may need an appointment with a veterinary
hygienist. This appointment involves placing your pet under general anesthesia,
so that plaque can be effectively removed along and under your pet's gum line.
This thorough cleaning will give your dog a good, clean slate of healthy teeth
for you to continue to maintain at home.
Our team at the Pet Medical Center of Vero Beach
specializes in dental care for the total health of your pet. If you have any
concerns about your dog's oral health, please
contact ustoday!
