Is dental care for dogs really necessary?
Your dog's oral health is essential to their overall health and wellbeing. Our canine companions often begin showing signs of periodontal disease (gum disease) by the time they reach about three years of age. This early start to dental disease can have serious negative consequences for your pup's long-term health.
In humans, studies have shown a clear link between periodontal disease and heart disease, and this appears to hold true for our pets as well.
The link between heart disease and periodontal disease in dogs is believed to be due to bacteria entering the bloodstream from the mouth, damaging heart function and causing issues with other organs. These health issues are in addition to the more obvious problem of pain caused by eroded gums and missing or damaged teeth.
A good oral health care routine at home, paired with dental treats and professional dental cleanings, can go a long way toward controlling the buildup of plaque and tartar and preventing tooth decay.
Neglecting annual professional cleaning could put your pup at risk of developing gingivitis, periodontal disease, bad breath, and, in severe cases, pain, tooth decay, and tooth loss.
Are there risks involved with professional dental care for dogs?
Whenever your dog undergoes anesthesia-related procedures, there are risks involved. That's why our vets assess all pets to ensure that they are healthy enough to handle anesthesia. We also conduct additional diagnostics if necessary to ensure that your four-legged friend will be safe under anesthesia during a dental exam.
What will happen during my dog's dental cleaning appointment?
To help prevent your pup from developing tooth decay and periodontal disease, our vets recommend bringing your dog in for a dental appointment at least once each year, or more frequently if your canine companion is suffering from more severe or recurring dental problems.
When you bring your dog to Pittsboro Animal Hospital for a dental checkup, our vets will perform a full oral examination for your pup and check for signs of dental issues, such as:
- Extra teeth or retained baby teeth
- Bleeding around the mouth
- Swelling or pain in or around the mouth
- Plaque or tartar buildup on teeth
- Discolored teeth
- Loose or
- Broken teeth
- Bad breath
If you detect signs of periodontal disease in your dog, such as reduced appetite (which can be an indication of tooth pain), abnormal chewing, drooling, dropping food from the mouth, bad breath, or others, be sure to contact your vet as soon as possible to schedule a dental appointment for your pet. Oral health issues can become severe if left untreated and cause your pet a great deal of pain and discomfort.
Once your pet is safely sedated, we will perform a full tooth-by-tooth examination, complete with charting (just like your dentist does during your examinations).
While your dog is safely and comfortably under anesthesia, we will thoroughly clean and polish their teeth above and below the gum line. We probe and x-ray the teeth, and then, to help protect against future decay and damage, we use a fluoride treatment before applying a dental sealant to prevent plaque buildup.
If your pup has advanced periodontal disease, we will work with you to develop a treatment plan to help restore its mouth to a pain-free and healthy state.
How long does it take for a dog to recover from teeth cleaning?
All dogs are different, but most dogs recover from the anesthetic within a few hours. It can sometimes take 24-48 hours to recover fully. During this time, your dog may seem tired and have a reduced appetite.
How much does dog teeth cleaning cost?
The cost of dog dental cleaning varies widely due to several factors, including the size of your dog, the condition of its teeth, where you live, and your vet. Contact your vet for an accurate estimate for cleaning your dog's teeth.
Regular veterinary dental care could avoid more invasive and expensive procedures and surgeries. Regular care will allow your vet to take proactive steps to help avoid advanced tooth decay and gum disease, which can lead to pain, tooth loss, and jaw deterioration.
How to Clean a Dog's Mouth
Pet owners often ask us how to clean their dog's teeth and if they should you be brushing their dog's teeth daily.
Here are a few easy ways that you can help to keep your dog's mouth healthy:
- Use a finger brush from your vet or a child’s toothbrush to brush your pet’s teeth daily to remove plaque or debris. It's as simple as brushing your teeth. If your dog resists having its teeth cleaned, try some doggie toothpaste in flavors your pup will find irresistible, like chicken. These special toothpastes can turn a chore into a treat.
- Use a plaque prevention product (your vet can recommend some), which you can apply to your dog's teeth and gums. These products act as a barrier to prevent plaque buildup.
- Offer your pup treats such as dental chews or food designed to help prevent plaque buildup and tartar.
Dental care is an important part of your pet's overall health. Be sure to book your pet's annual dental appointment today. Your dog will thank you.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.