Risks of Poor Oral Hygiene in Dogs

Proper oral hygiene in dogs is an essential aspect for any dog's health. Due to the fact many dog owners overlook proper dental hygiene in dogs, the American Veterinary Dental Society estimates over 80% of dogs over the age of three years will develop gum disease. There are serious risks involved with poor oral hygiene in dogs. Lack of proper oral hygiene in dogs often leads to inflamed and infected gums, loose teeth, and even rotting tooth sockets. Poor dog dental care is the number one cause of bad breath in dogs. With poor dental care, a veterinary bill to reverse the damage can become quite expensive, and if left untreated, the poor dental health can lead to a number of health complications.

Periodontal Disease

The most common dental condition in dogs is periodontal disease. Periodontal disease occurs when bacteria present in plaque and tarter (calculus) buildup causes an infection and inflammation within the gums and supporting tissues of the teeth. The disease begins with plaque and tarter accumulate on the dog's teeth just below the gum line, which overtime, causes bleeding gums, bad breath and gum inflammation. As the disease progresses, the gums begin to recede and the teeth become loose and eventually fall out. Proper dental hygiene can prevent this condition, as well as proper pet nutrition.

Tooth Decay

As with humans, dogs experience tooth decay from poor dog dental care. Cavities can occur in dogs as well, but are more commonly known as a resorption lesion. These lesions occur just at or just below the gum line and cause red and swollen gums surrounding the affected tooth. Often, the dog will show obvious signs of pain.

Dogs commonly experience dental fractures as a result of poor dental hygiene. Dental fractures require prompt treatment if the pulp of the tooth is exposed. If exposed, the tooth can become abscessed, even if the dog shows no signs of pain. As with humans, if this occurs a root canal for dogs is performed, sealing the root canal opening with a dental sealant.

Most dental complications in dogs can be prevented when proper oral hygiene is practiced, except in cases of hereditary conditions. While dental care for dogs is available, it is very expensive and many veterinarians do not offer this service. As a result, tooth extractions are almost always conducted to treat dental complications in dogs. To prevent these dental complications, it is important to brush dogs' teeth regularly and reduce tarter and plaque accumulation by providing the dog with the correct diet and adequate chew toys.

References:
"Oral Hygiene and Your Dog's Health" PetCenter
"Why is Canine Dental Health Important" ArticleBase
"Dental Care for Pets" VetMed