There is a common misconception that dogs play with toys or chew on treats to cleanse their teeth naturally. Like humans, dogs create tartar and plaque, which can cause bad breath and bad dental health.
Many factors can contribute to dental problems for dogs. Various factors can cause dental issues. Genetics, breed, age, and diet are all factors that determine the likelihood that your dog is healthy with its teeth.
If you delay the cost of cleaning your teeth for dogs and let the problem get worse, it could cause severe consequences like tooth loss or gum disease. Even if you clean their teeth every day, a licensed veterinarian should take the initiative and clean beneath the surface.
Strategies to Pet Oral Hygiene
Cleaning your dog’s teeth in-between visits to the vet can aid in reducing tartar and plaque development. However, professional cleaning by your vet is essential to prevent dental diseases because it’s more thorough and efficient. A few of the factors you as pet owners should consider when making plans for your four-legged dog’s dental health are listed below.
1. The Annual Oral Vet Visits
This is the most critical thing you can do to keep your cat’s or dog’s mouth as healthy as it could be. Based on whether your pet is suffering from a history of dental issues or if it’s been noted in their medical records that they develop tartar quickly and your pet dentist may recommend regular exams and professional cleaning.
2. Additives to Water
The market is overflowing with water additives that claim to be a boon for the breath of your dog, plaque, and tartar. Before taking any new substance, talking to the vet is always a good idea. They have plenty of experience that they will share for you to learn more and are happy to assess the ingredients.
Let you know why they might or might not continue with the product if you are in the same position.
3. Correct Orthodontic Chews and Toys
In the field of veterinary medicine, the most common guideline is if you don’t want to be hit in the knee with a piece of an object, do not give it to your dog to chew. Natural and nylon bones, deer antlers, ice cubes, rawhides, as well as similar items could cause irreparable harm to your pet’s teeth.
Giving your pet access to the kinds of chews that can be found in your pet’s mouth is not a wise idea. Dental injuries can be uncomfortable for dogs and a waste of money. Your vet, as always, will be happy to help you choose the most suitable option and secure.
4. Brush Regularly
This is a simple task for pets; however, it’ll require tremendous effort, patience, and perseverance from other pets. Begin by slowly introducing your fingers into the mouth of your pet, moving on to the taste of toothpaste, and then a brush or a toothbrush as your pet friend becomes more comfortable. It should be a pleasant experience for both you and your pet.
The process of brushing has its drawbacks. It’s impossible to reach the brush towards the rear, and sweeping the inside of the teeth is nearly impossible.
5. Healthy Diet
Diet has been a controversial issue in recent times. There are many opinions regarding what they feed their dogs according to their eating habits. It is recommended to ask your vet before changing the food for your pet. Your veterinarian will help you make the right choices for your cat.
This includes reducing tartar and plaque buildup and decreasing the number of dental procedures your pet may require during its life. A healthy diet can also help other aspects of your pet’s wellness. On the other hand, an improper diet can lead to a severe ailment that would need surgery if necessary. You can click here to know more about pet surgery.