Keeping up with your pup’s oral hygiene is important.
Periodontal disease is one of the most common health problems in dogs and cats. The condition happens when oral bacteria attaches to teeth as a part of plaque. Together, the bacteria and plaque expand under the gum line, causing inflammation and the loss of soft tissue that surrounds the tooth. When the gum swells, it allows the oral bacteria to enter the bloodstream before it gets carried to the heart, liver and kidneys.
How quickly the disease occurs depends on the animal’s age, diet and breed. Chihuahuas and dachshunds are predisposed to periodontal disease. Signs of periodontal disease include bad breath, swollen gums, nasal discharge and drooling.
Teeth Brushing
It’s important to brush your dog’s teeth often at home. Dogs don’t chew with their front teeth, which means they are not getting cleaned. I suggest following up the process with a treat or reward for your pup.
Dental Bones
In conjunction with regular brushing, one option to explore is dental bones, which can remove tartar and plaque from your dog’s teeth while they chew. As always, with anything edible, monitor your dog while he’s enjoying a dental bone.
Professional Cleaning
During a professional cleaning at the veterinarian’s office, plaque and tartar are removed from the gum line, then the teeth are polished to remove the pits left by the tartar. Each tooth is then examined one-by-one to check overall health. Typically, anesthesia is used in professional dental cleanings, which can be risky business for older dogs.
If your dog has never had a professional cleaning – or if it has been awhile – ask your vet to check out his chompers during your next visit.
As always, feel free to contact us with questions.