Is dog teeth cleaning really necessary?

I know exactly how dental diseases affect pets. I know that the dental tartar you see slowly building up on your pet's teeth is about 80 percent bacteria and that it damages the gums, the bone underneath, and the ligaments that hold the teeth in place. This bacteria can access the bloodstream and infect vital organs such as the heart, lungs and kidneys. I also know that advanced dental disease hurts; it makes pets feel sick.

Daily brushing is the best deterrent. Tooth decay and gum disease are a problem for both dogs and people. That's why taking care of your dog's teeth is an important element in taking care of your dog's overall health. In today's post, our Richmond veterinarians explain how to clean a dog's mouth and keep your puppy's teeth in top condition.

Brushing a dog's teeth is no easy task. Try brushing at least once a week. Start brushing your dog's teeth as a puppy to get him used to the process. Take your dog to the vet for professional cleaning at least once a year, most vets recommend every six months, especially for smaller dogs.

Smaller dogs are more prone to periodontal disease. Your veterinarian's insistence that your canine companion needs dental cleaning addresses much more than just a dog's bad breath problem. Depending on your dog's age and health, the veterinarian may recommend a blood test before the procedure to ensure that your dog's liver and kidneys can properly process anesthetic agents. Neglecting annual professional cleaning could put your dog at risk of developing gingivitis, periodontal disease, bad breath and, in severe cases, pain, tooth decay and tooth loss.

While implementing an oral care routine at home (and perhaps combining it with treats or dental chews) is important because it helps control plaque and tartar buildup, visiting the vet regularly for professional cleaning is the best way to keep your dog's mouth clean and healthy. If you schedule regular examinations with your veterinarian, he will be able to tell you when and how often your dog should have dentistry. Taking care of your dog's dental health is as important as any other aspect of your dog's well-being, and many veterinarians recommend scheduling annual physical examinations. Dental cleanings are especially important for dog breeds with a genetic predisposition to dental diseases, such as many small breeds, or dogs fed wet food.

Parvovirus is a highly contagious, often deadly virus that spreads very quickly among dogs through direct contact or contact with contaminated items, such as toys or bowls. We recommend scheduling an annual dental appointment for your dog and bringing them more often if they are prone to dental problems. Feeding high-quality food, avoiding table scraps, and using specially formulated treats to keep your teeth healthy are easy steps you can take to support dental health. Small dogs need to clean their teeth more often than larger dogs because their teeth, relative to the mouth, are large, which causes overcrowding.

Cornelius Konczak
Cornelius Konczak

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