Dental care for dogs is a rapidly expanding field of medicine, but is a strangely novel concept for many dog owners and potential dog owners. However, many of us have the desire to give our pets long, healthy lives, and this is an essential way to contribute to that ideal. For new dog owners, or those who have no idea where to begin their dog’s dental care, it is important to learn the basics of doggie dental health care.
Even though dogs are unlike humans in almost every way that you can imagine, we do have a small number of common issues. As a person, you admit that brushing your teeth on a regular basis, going to the dentist from time to time, and everyday oral care are crucial parts of your mouth’s health. Whether we realize it or not, dogs need the same care on a regular basis.
Just like ours, if a dog’s teeth are uncared for, over time, they will begin to deteriorate. Again like us, poor dental care will cause pain, discomfort, and even illness for a dog. This generally occurs in three distinct stages:
Plaque accumulates on the teeth.
This is basically the breakdown of sugars and other food particles on the teeth/gums, and it produces bacteria. This is occurring continuously, but is decreased somewhat by eating particular foods, chewing, and drinking water.
Plaque hardens into tartar.
Tartar is an extremely hard, mineralized substance that forms on the teeth when plaque accumulates. The tartar build-up usually results in gingivitis, a disease characterized by red or swollen gums, very bad breath, and slightly bloody gums.
Periodontal disease sets in.
When tartar swells to a particular stage on the teeth, it starts to spread under the gums too, allowing pockets between the teeth and gums to form. These pockets are wonderful environments for bacteria to reproduce in. Destruction from periodontal disease is irreparable, and characteristically includes abscesses, infections, and even tooth loss.
The most significant danger from periodontal disease is the capability for bacteria to invade the bloodstream. If and/or when this happens, the dog could suffer infections in the cardiovascular system and kidneys. The age of the dog becomes a factor here, as the older the dog is, the worse and more dangerous this situation becomes. It is so serious that it can cause fatality if the condition is not treated. This is another reason that proper dental care for your dog is so important.
A dog’s dental care should always begin with his owner, at home. Dogs should get daily oral exams if possible, in particular active dogs or those who chew a lot. Vigilantly look out for symptoms of disease or injury: red or bleeding gums, chipped or cracked teeth, irritated lips or gums, and so on. Anything out of the ordinary should be mentioned to your veterinarian at the dog’s next visit, if not sooner. Of equal importance is brushing your dog’s teeth every day. You can purchase tools for this at pet stores, on the Internet, or by getting them from a veterinarian. Make sure to offer toys/food that prevents tartar build-up, such as snack bones/treats made specifically for this purpose.
In addition to daily home exams and care, your dog needs annual or bi-annual vet visits for dental work. Your vet will carry out routine dental cleanings, including:
An oral exam. More thorough than the daily one we can do from home.
X-rays. Radiographs will screen for any abnormalities that might not be noticed otherwise, and will be used to guarantee that all the teeth are healthy enough to undergo cleaning.
Ultrasonic or manual cleaning, depending on the vet. Your dog will sleep through this due to anesthesia, but it is vital toward removing the tartar that builds up on the teeth.
Tools with rotary brushing heads remove scratches and similar surface imperfections that are ideal bacterial breeding grounds.
By being responsible to care for your dog’s dental health care, your pet is given a longer, healthier, and happier life in the long run. Dental insurance is even offered for your dog in order to support dog owners in the fight against tooth decay, tooth loss, and periodontal disease. Get a quote from your current health or dental insurance provider, or simply type “Pet Health Insurance” into your chosen search engine to find out more details. Most importantly, don’t disregard those daily brushings; your dog will thank you for them!
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