Plaque forms on the teeth’s enamel and is made up of bacteria, saliva, and cellular waste. When food particles accumulate on a plaque, it becomes hard, thick, and yellow—or calcified—forming a tartar. Many dogs’ teeth develop tartar by the time they are two to three years old. Tartar causes gingivitis (inflamed, unhealthy, and painful gums), halitosis (bad breath), and periodontal gum disease, leading to tooth loss and discomfort if not addressed. The bacteria might spread through the bloodstream to other organs in the body, including the heart, kidneys, and liver, causing chronic sickness or death.
Dog Dental Care Basics
Dental care for your pet should begin as soon as you bring them home. The following are the signs and symptoms of dental disease:
- Breathing difficulties
- Appetite loss/pain when chewing
- Weight loss
- Yellow teeth
- Gums that are swollen or red
- Tooth loss
- Discharge from the nostril
- Weeping or swelling below the eye
Over 80 percent of cats and dogs are suffering from a tooth illness of some type. This unfortunate fate is prevented with the expertise of veterinary dentist Staten Island.
Preventive Dental Care
If your pet has gingivitis, an antiseptic spray applied to their mouth may be helpful. Make an appointment with your veterinarian to discuss this. Canned food may cause tooth decay, so feed them some crunchy food, like kibble or biscuit-type food, at every meal to keep their teeth clean. Teeth cleaning may also be aided by raw meaty bones and canine dental toys. Bare-bones provide no benefit and may damage the teeth. Your dog’s teeth will be harmed if you throw stones for him to fetch.
It might be stressful to hear your dog or cat requires dental surgery. Aadobe Animal Hospital is a Staten Island vet group that provides cats and dogs with quality veterinary dental surgery.
Food
Feeding your pet firm dry kibble, which has a natural abrasive action, will help to decrease plaque accumulation. Cleaning your pet’s teeth using dental bones and flossie-type chews is also a simple and effective method.
Chewable Toys
Chewing may aid in the cleansing of your dog’s teeth and gums. Chewing assists in the smoothing of teeth and the eradication of tartar. It also increases the development of antibacterial saliva, which helps to keep your dog’s mouth clean.
Brushing
One of the most effective ways to prevent tartar is to brush your pet’s teeth. Yes, it may not seem simple, and it may not be easy. Making it a fun experience for your pet early on is the best way to proceed. Your veterinarian may advise you to brush your pet’s teeth. Toothpaste, toothbrushes, chews, mouth rinse, and more goods are available to make things easier.
To clean your dog’s teeth, dip your finger in dog toothpaste and massage around his gum line and teeth. After he’s become accustomed to it, clean his teeth and gums carefully with a dog toothbrush or a finger tooth-glove.
Checkup and Cleaning
Regular dental exams are required for your pet, just as they are for you. Each pet’s individual needs determine cleaning frequency, so visit your veterinarian at least once every six months.
It’s critical to watch for signs of possible canine dental problems and treat them as soon as possible. The dog’s breath should not be foul, and the lips and tongue should be salmon pink in color. Consult your veterinarian if your dog refuses to eat or drink.
Pet Wellness Plan: Visit this website to know the plan that matches your pet.