Maintaining your dog's dental health is essential for their overall well-being. Good oral hygiene can prevent various health issues, ensuring your pet remains happy and healthy. In this blog post, our vets in Exeter will discuss the importance of dental care for dogs, how to clean their mouths, recognize dental health problems, and the benefits of routine dental care at the vet.
Why is dog dental health important?
Like humans, dogs can suffer from dental issues affecting their quality of life. Poor dental hygiene can lead to plaque and tartar buildup, which can cause gum disease, tooth decay, and even systemic health problems if bacteria enter the bloodstream. Regular dental care helps prevent these issues, ensuring your dog remains healthy and comfortable.
How to Clean Your Dog's Mouth
Cleaning your dog's teeth should be a regular grooming routine. Here’s how you can do it:
- Invest in a dog toothbrush and toothpaste specifically designed for dogs. Human toothpaste can be harmful to pets.
- Brush your dog's teeth at least two to three times a week, and daily brushing is ideal.
- Brush the teeth using gentle, circular motions, focusing on the gum line, where plaque accumulates.
- Positive reinforcement, like treats or praise, can help make your dog's experience more pleasant.
Signs of Dental Health Problems
Monitoring your dog's mouth for signs of dental issues is crucial. Here are some indicators that your dog might have a dental problem:
- Persistent bad breath can be a sign of dental disease.
- These are indicators of gum disease or infection.
- Difficulty eating can indicate oral pain.
- These are signs of advanced dental disease.
- This can be a sign that your dog is experiencing oral discomfort.
What will happen during my dog's dental cleaning appointment?
To help prevent your dog from developing tooth decay and periodontal disease, our veterinarians at Exeter recommend bringing your dog in for a dental appointment at least once each year or more frequently if your canine companion is suffering from more severe or recurring dental problems.
When you bring your dog or cat to your veterinary dentist at Pacific Crest Companion Animal Veterinary Hospital for a dental cleaning, our vets will perform a full oral examination and check for signs of dental issues such as:
- Extra teeth or retained baby teeth
- Bleeding around the mouth
- Swelling or pain in or around the mouth
- Plaque or tartar buildup on teeth
- Discolored teeth
- Loose or
- Broken teeth
- Bad breath
While your dog is safely and comfortably under anesthesia, we will thoroughly clean and polish its teeth above and below the gum line. We will also probe and X-ray the teeth and apply a fluoride treatment to protect against future decay and damage. Additionally, we will use a dental sealant to prevent plaque buildup.
If your dog has advanced periodontal disease, we will work with you to develop a treatment plan to help restore its mouth to a pain-free and healthy state.
How long does it take for a dog to recover from teeth cleaning?
All dogs are different, but you can expect your dog to begin recovering from the anesthetic within a few hours. It can sometimes take 24-48 hours to recover fully. During this time, your dog may seem tired and have a reduced appetite.
How much does dog teeth cleaning cost?
The cost of dog dental cleaning varies widely due to several factors, including the size of your dog, the condition of its teeth, where you live, and your vet. Contact your vet for an accurate estimate for cleaning your dog's teeth.
Regular veterinary dental care could avoid more invasive and expensive procedures and surgeries. Regular care will allow your vet to take proactive steps to help prevent advanced tooth decay and gum disease, which can lead to pain, tooth loss, and jaw deterioration.
Dental Care
Caring for your dog's teeth is crucial for their health and happiness. Regular brushing at home and routine professional dental cleanings can prevent many dental issues and ensure your dog lives a long, healthy life.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.