Dog Dental Care

Dental problems do not only happen to humans! Clean teeth and gums are very important to the overall health of your dog. Sadly, many owners do not know how to look after their dog's teetch and at the age of two or three, their dogs have developed either periodontitis or gingivitis or are suffering pain from an untreated broken or damaged tooth.

Periodontitis

It is very common for dogs to have gum disease, also known as periodontistis or periodontal disease. The disease is caused by various factors: plaque, food debris, cell mucus, and a mixture of bacteria. These results in a milky-white film on the dog's teeth as well as the gums. When this film gets combined with saliva, the plaque it causes becomes tartar, and is very hard to remove.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis, also known as gum disease, happens when gum tissue suffers from an inflammation. Without treatment, it can lead to periodontitis, teeth loosening, bone loss, and ultimately, loss of teeth.

Tooth fractures

Tooth fractures occur when dogs chew hard substances, such as hard rocks and cow hooves. The fractures can result in infection inside the broken tooth, which is known as the endodontic disease.

How to prevent dental problems

It is possible to fight off these dental problems by removing the plaque before it actually develops as tartar. How to do it? The most effective way is by brushing your dog's teeth, which reduces much of the bacteria presence in the mouth, not to mention making your dog's breath smell sweeter. Make it a habit of brushing your dog's teeth on a daily basis. 

Toothpaste

There are toothpaste products made especially for dogs. Brush your pet's teeth using dog toothpaste. Human toothpaste is specifically designed for humans to spit the paste washings out. Dogs cannot do that, so pick a dog toothpaste that is safe enough for dogs to swallow.

Toothbrush

It will take some time for your dog to get used to using a toothbrush. Get your dog used to it by dipping an old toothbrush in garlic salt and letting him chew on it.

Finger brush

A finger brush is a good alternative to a toothbrush. It fits onto one's fingertip and can let you brush the dog's teeth without the dog knowing it (well, almost!) A finger brush isn't quite as effective as a regular toothbrush.

Professional cleaning

If you don't want to do the cleaning by yourself, you could take your dog to a veterinarian and have its teeth professionally cleaned. A good vet will take additional measures, usually anesthetizing your dog, scraping the buildup of plaque from all over the gum line areas, and polishing the teeth for a sparkling finish.

Home checkup

Try to make it a regular habit of checking the teeth of your dog for any cracked or broken teeth. If you see some problematic teeth, check promptly with the veterinarian.

Home safety

Of course, cleaning your dog's teeth does not mean you should disregard other areas of concern. Tough substances, such as unsuitable bones and rocks should be removed. Buy your dog safe chewing toys such as rubber toys. You could also provide bones that are soft enough for your dog to chew.

Mouthwash

There are some products in the market that are very helpful in killing the bacteria in your dog's mouth and could actually help heal damaged gum tissues. Do not forget to ask your veterinarian about the best products in the market.