Your dog’s mouth might not be as visible as other parts of your body, but just like your own, it can be a source of health problems if not properly taken care of. Depending on the breed and other factors, some of them suffer from oral problems with much greater frequency than people. A healthy mouth starts with the right diet and regular dental care.
We all know that if our human friends get gum disease, it’s important to get to their dentist. But do our canine friends need the same care? The answer is yes. Just like humans, dogs can develop gum disease, which, if left untreated, can lead to tooth loss. Fortunately, it’s easier than you think to spot the early signs of gum disease in your dog. So, let’s explore what you need to know about dog dental care.
Importance Of Oral Hygiene and Your Dog’s Health
Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential to healthy teeth and gums. And it’s not only important for humans, as canine dental care is also important. It’s especially important for dog owners since their mouth is prone to heavy plaque and tartar buildup. Luckily, a range of products can help pet owners keep their canine companions’ teeth healthy.
Dogs are man’s best friend, and man’s best friend needs proper dental care. According to the American Veterinary Dental College, 80 per cent of dogs and 50 per cent of cats over the age of three have some form of periodontal disease, the most common being gingivitis. Some breeds are more susceptible to periodontal disease, including Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, and Poodles. But regardless of breed, a dog lacking proper dental care can develop bad breath, bleeding gums, loose teeth, difficulty eating, and tooth loss.
Tips On How to Take Care of Oral Hygiene and Your Dog’s Health:
Clean Them Daily
Dogs love food. They love to eat. But they hate bad breath. Like humans, they may experience bad breath and gum disease. But, unlike humans, they do not need dentures or implants, as their teeth are not altered. Healthy teeth are important to their overall health. If you have a dog, you must inspect its teeth daily.
Regular Vet Checkup
Maintaining your pet’s dental hygiene is an important part of being a pet owner. When your pet’s teeth become badly infected, it can cause problems for the rest of the body. Keeping your pet’s oral health is a priority, and it’s easier than you think. Daily brushing and regular vet checkups are the best ways to make sure your pet doesn’t suffer from any dental problems.
Avoid Harmful Foods
Dogs are creatures of habit when it comes to food. They’ll eat the same kibble for weeks, even months, but only if it’s available. You can make changes to your pup’s diet, including switching brands, but it’s important to keep your dog’s teeth healthy.
Immediate Treatment
When it comes to taking care of a dog, one of the most important things to do is to make sure their teeth are taken care of. Dogs can easily get cavities in their gums, just like humans can. Initially, this may seem like no big deal, but if left untreated, it can lead to serious dental issues like loose teeth, infected gums, and gum disease.
Do it Properly
Improper oral care can also lead to poor dog health. Just as in humans, bacteria in the mouth can cause disease in dogs. Bacteria multiply in the mouth and produce toxins, causing bad breath and periodontal disease. Bacteria and toxins also can travel through the bloodstream to other parts of the body, causing systemic diseases.
Caring for your pet’s teeth and gums is an important step in ensuring their health. Your dog’s teeth are actually not much different than your own. But a dog’s teeth tend to accumulate plaque twice as fast, and a dog’s mouth is much harder to clean. Brushing your dog’s teeth every day, including his/her tongue, will help control plaque and tartar. Regular visits from your veterinarian can help keep your dog’s teeth healthy and clean. While taking care of a dog may be a lot of work, the effort you put into your dog’s health shouldn’t be overlooked since the health of your pet directly relates to yours.
