When it comes to your beloved pet’s health and well-being, it is important to remember that good dental health is just as important as good physical health. Poor dental health can significantly impact their overall wellness, leading to other health problems. As a pet owner, you must pay attention to your dog’s oral health and provide appropriate preventative care.
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How does the state of a dog's teeth affect their overall health?
Periodontal disease is common in dogs, affecting at least 80% by age three. It begins with plaque buildup, which hardens into tartar. Tartar below the gum line is particularly harmful, causing infections and damaging the jawbone and connective tissues between the teeth and jaw.
Advanced periodontal disease causes severe pain and may lead to other health problems like kidney, liver, and heart damage. Poor dental care can also lead to tooth loss due to infections and damaged teeth and gums. Dental problems also cause bad breath (halitosis), affecting their quality of life and interaction with their owners.
Severe dental diseases can also make eating and drinking difficult. Chewing on hard objects can result in broken teeth, exposing the nerve and causing pain. The exposed nerve can also become infected, leading to more severe dental problems.
Allyn, Registered Veterinary Technician
What dental diseases or complications do dogs commonly encounter?
The biggest problems are broken teeth or teeth that are starting to fall out. These issues can cause a lot of pain, make it hard for the dog to eat, and generally leave them uncomfortable.
What are the most common signs or symptoms of dental disease in dogs?
Visually, dental disease may appear as tartar, redness of the gingiva, inflammation, or even bleeding. Common signs and symptoms include a dog not wanting to eat much, wincing when trying to chew, or no longer chewing on a favorite bone.
Knowing the signs and symptoms of dental disease in dogs is crucial when it comes to ensuring your pet’s health. Here are some of the most common signs to look out for:
- Bad breath (halitosis)
- Bleeding or inflamed gums
- Discolored teeth (brown or yellow)
- Loose or missing teeth
- Irritability
- Weight loss
- Bloody saliva
- Decreased appetite
- Favoring one side of the mouth when chewing
- Excessive drooling
- Blood in the water bowl or on chew toys
- Decreased interest in eating dry food or hard treats
- Chewing more slowly than usual
- Dropping food from the mouth while chewing
- Pawing at the mouth
- New or worsening resistance to having the face/mouth touched
- Swelling in the areas surrounding the mouth
If you notice any of these signs, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent further damage and health problems.
What are some reasons my dog is losing teeth?
Dental disease is probably the main reason. When tartar and plaque begin to form, bacteria can get underneath the gingiva. The gingiva becomes inflamed and infected, which causes bone loss. As the bone recedes, the tooth becomes loose and may eventually fall out.
Is there a specialist my dogs need to see for dental care?
Sometimes, we may refer you to a dental specialist, especially for procedures such as crowns or other orthodontic-type treatments. We do not provide those services here. We perform general cleanings, dental x-rays, and extractions when needed.
Are certain dog breeds more likely to develop dental problems?
Yes. Smaller dogs and brachycephalic dogs, such as pugs with short noses, tend to have more dental problems than larger dogs. Their teeth are often crowded, which makes it easier for tartar and debris to get trapped. Smaller breeds definitely tend to experience more dental disease than larger breeds.
What should I do if I see plaque or tartar on my dog's teeth?
You should make sure your dog sees a veterinarian once a year for an annual exam. We will look at the teeth and let you know if we recommend a dental cleaning. Brushing your dog's teeth at home is also very important. Once a day is great, twice a day is even better, and even once a week is better than nothing. You can always ask about how to start brushing your dog’s or cat’s teeth, and we have lots of information to help.
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Can I use a human toothbrush and toothpaste for my dog?
I would highly recommend using pet toothpaste and possibly a pet toothbrush as well. If you are going to use a human toothbrush, make sure it is a soft brush. We do not want a stiff brush that could cause pain or damage the gingiva. Toothpaste is especially important. Pet toothpaste tastes better, with flavors like poultry or salmon, and human toothpaste may contain ingredients such as xylitol, which is very harmful to dogs.
How can I clean my dog's teeth without brushing?
There are other options available. The Veterinary Oral Health Council is a great place to start for information. There are water additives, wipes, and some chew toys that have been shown to help remove plaque. Sticking with products recommended by the Veterinary Oral Health Council is helpful because those products have been tested and shown to work.
How do I know if my dog needs to have its teeth professionally cleaned?
Seeing your veterinarian and getting their advice is probably the best thing to do. If you can see tartar on your dog's teeth, they probably should be professionally cleaned.
Does my dog need to go under anesthesia for a dental cleaning?
Absolutely. It is not possible to take dental X-rays without general anesthesia, and it is not possible to clean properly underneath the gum line without it. Most dental disease is located underneath the gum line.
How can I care for my dog’s teeth at home?
Home dental care is essential in ensuring your dog’s dental health. Here are five ways to keep your dog’s teeth clean and healthy:
- Brushing: Brushing your dog’s teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush designed for pets and an enzymatic toothpaste (also made for pets) helps remove the bacterial biofilm that forms on their teeth. Start slow and be patient with your dog, making it an enjoyable experience.
- Oral Rinses and Water Additives: Using oral rinses or water additives containing chlorhexidine, zinc gluconate, and vitamin C can help rinse away bacterial film accumulating on the gum tissue.
- Dental Wipes: Dental wipes can help remove plaque and bacterial film from the dog's teeth and gums, though they are less effective than brushing.
- Dental Diets and Chews: Special dental diets and chews approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) can help reduce plaque and tartar when given in addition to brushing and other at-home care methods.
- Regular Veterinary Check-ups: Schedule regular dental evaluations as part of your dog's annual preventive care exam. Early detection of potential problems can prevent severe dental issues down the line. Sierra Animal Hospital offers comprehensive professional dental cleaning services for dogs to ensure their oral health is properly managed.
If you’re looking for veterinary care you can trust, call us at (530) 626-4838 or email [email protected]. We’re here to keep your pet healthy, happy, and thriving!