Dental Care for Your Dog: Strong Teeth, Healthy Gums and Fresh Breath

Oral disease is the number one health problem that is diagnosed in dogs. Therefore, it is important to get your dog adequate dental care both professionally by a veterinarian and at home. Although dogs very rarely get cavities, they are quite prone to gum disease and tartar build up on the teeth. Food particles and bacteria can collect and become lodged below the gum line which results in plaque.

Tartar is plaque that becomes mineralized on the teeth. It adheres strongly to the teeth and is irritating to the gums. It can become so severe that it causes the gums to become inflamed and gingivitis can occur. If the tartar is not removed it can build up under the gums, separating the gums from the teeth, encouraging even more growth of bacteria.

That is when the damage becomes irreversible, it is called periodontal disease which is very painful and can cause the teeth to become loose, abscess and even lead to bone loss or infection. Eventually, the bacteria can enter the bloodstream and infect various organs in the dog. This can be prevented, however, with just a little extra care and regular visits to your veterinarian.

Food that Fights Plaque and Tartar

Hard kibbles have been shown to be a rather effective manner of keeping plaque from accumulating on the dog's teeth. This is referred to as mechanical removal of plaque. There are certain foods that are approved by veterinary dentists. These foods have received the Veterinarian Oral Health's Council seal of acceptance. Look for foods that carry this seal when you are getting your dog's food. Dogs that are fed these foods have been shown to have less plaque and tartar buildup.

Brush, Brush, Brush!

Brushing can be a special time for you and your dog. It cleans his teeth and gums and prevents gum diseases from developing. There are a variety of pet toothpastes on the market. It is important to make sure that you use a toothpaste that is formulated specifically for pet, human toothpaste can upset your dog's stomach.

You may want to ask your vet for a recommendation to find the best brand. There are also various toothbrushes, sponges and pads that are used with the toothpaste. It is important to use utensils that are specifically for pet dental care, because they are smaller, very soft and have a different shape to treat the unique dental needs of your dog.

Treats and Toys for Clean Teeth and Fresh Breath

Treats and toys that are specially created for clean teeth and fresh breath are a good option for in between brushings. There are many toys that are made to remove plaque from the dog's teeth. Rawhide chips, rope toys and dental toys can be very effective. Look for packaging that states it is for plaque removal or good dental health. Crunchy treats can act as a good plaque removal. There are even treats that promote fresh breath for the dog. Check with your vet for advice and guidance.