When Does Your Dog Need Dental Cleaning?

Owners are surprised when they are told their pet needs a dental cleaning. Some of them may just have their pet’s teeth cleaned two or three years ago. How can the teeth be that bad? The pet is eating normally. Most pet owners do not routinely exam their pet’s mouth. This leads to the out of side, out of mind philosophy.

A recent survey showed that 85% of dogs and cats over 4 years of age suffer from periodontal disease. When periodontal disease is present, the boundary formed by the gum is compromised. Bacterial can now enter the blood stream where is then goes to the liver, kidneys, joints, and heart muscle and can potentially lead to irreversible damage.

Dog supplies like dog toothbrushes and toothpaste are essential. I strongly recommend all the pet owners routinely brush their teeth as often as they can, once a day as a goal standard. Get your pet used to have their mouth fussed with at their age. So how would you know your pet needs a dental cleaning? Flip their lips and take a sniff. Don’t expect the breath to be pleasant but it shouldn’t knock you over. If it does, see your veterinarian. You should exam all of its teeth instead of just the ones in front. Merely pull off the lips towards the ears at the point with the bottom lip beneath the top.

The teeth should be white in color with the smooth surface. If they are brown or spots covering with tartar, they need to be cleaned. Dog products like chew toys can help remove tartar. If you notice the portion of the tooth is missing, which often happens to the canine teeth or the larger grinding teeth, your pet needs to see the veterinarian. Gum tissue should be pink in color and form a smooth line at the tooth margin. If it is red or inflamed, make it appointment immediately.

You may think your pet is too old for dental cleansing and have a concerned about anesthesia. Anesthesia is much safer than it was several years ago. Your veterinarian will take all precautions to save-guard your pet. If teeth do need to be extracted, your veterinarian will only extract them if it is absolutely necessary. When advanced dental procedure such as root canal treatment and your veterinarian may perform the services in the clinic. Remember your pet is not getting any younger, and the teeth will not get better on their own. Routine dental care can add years to your pet’s healthy life.