How does the state of a dog's teeth affect their overall health?
Many dental diseases in dogs are painful or involve infection and can impact your pet's overall comfort, as well as the health of the rest of their organs and their longevity.
What dental diseases or complications do dogs commonly encounter?
By far the most common dental disease we see in dogs is periodontal disease, also called gum disease. We also see a lot of dental fractures and masses inside the mouth.
What causes dental disease in dogs?
Periodontal disease is caused by bacteria at the gum line, which is that soft spongy plaque. Basically, the gums become inflamed, causing gingivitis, and in later stages, this causes bone changes around the tooth, resulting in loose and infected teeth.
What are the common signs and symptoms of dental disease in dogs?
The biggest sign you'll see at home for dental disease in dogs is bad breath. Unfortunately, doggy breath is not normal and usually signals underlying dental disease. We can also see dogs that will drop food or drool a lot. Inside the mouth, you'll notice red gums, loose teeth, or a lot of tartar accumulation.
What are some reasons my dog is losing teeth?
The most common reason a dog might lose teeth is due to periodontal disease. In the very late stages of dental disease, significant bone loss around the tooth occurs, meaning the tooth cannot be held in the mouth anymore and is lost. Teeth can also fall out because of fractures.
Is there a specialist my dog needs to see in order to get dental care?
Most dogs can be treated at your family veterinarian for standard dental procedures. If there's something more complicated, you may need to be referred to a dental specialist.
Do dogs' teeth fall out?
Dogs' teeth do fall out normally when they transition from being a puppy to an adult. They should lose all of their baby teeth before the corresponding adult teeth come in. However, in adulthood, tooth loss would be abnormal, usually due to underlying periodontal disease or tooth fractures.
Are certain dog breeds more likely to develop dental problems?
Absolutely. If you have a dog that is less than 5 kilograms, they've got a much higher statistical risk of having severe periodontal disease throughout their lifetime. In particular, Dachshunds, Yorkshire Terriers, and Shih Tzus are prone to dental disease. High on the list for dogs that are very prone to dental disease is the Chihuahua.
What should I do if I see plaque or tartar on my dog's teeth?
If you see plaque or tartar on your dog's teeth, I recommend calling your vet clinic and scheduling a dental check so it can be assessed and to determine what should be done next.
How much does it cost to have my dog's teeth cleaned?
To get an estimate for a dental cleaning for your particular pet, we recommend calling your local clinic and setting up an assessment appointment so they can evaluate the mouth and provide more information about your pet's specific condition and the cost involved for a dental cleaning.
What can I do to prevent dental issues for my dog?
There are several things that can help prevent dental issues for your dog. The first is getting regular professional dental cleanings. If we don't remove tartar and plaque at the gum line and assess the teeth, the disease goes untreated. The best thing you can do at home is daily toothbrushing, followed by a dental diet if it's appropriate, or potentially dental chews and treats.
How can I care for my dog's teeth at home?
The best dental care at home is daily toothbrushing because removing that soft plaque at the gum line can help slow down the course of dental disease. Certain dental diets may also help reduce tartar and plaque, as well as certain chews and treats, as long as they have the VOCC seal indicating they are approved for use and effective at removing tartar and plaque.
Can I use a human toothbrush and toothpaste for my dog?
You can use a human toothbrush as long as it's soft. For smaller dogs, you may want to use a pet-specific brush like a finger brush to reach the tight parts of your pet's mouth. However, you should not use human toothpaste because it contains fluoride and other compounds that shouldn't be swallowed. Instead, use dog toothpaste, which often comes in flavors like chicken that pets prefer.
Are there any ways I can clean my dog's teeth at home without brushing?
Unfortunately, toothbrushing is the most effective way to clean teeth and remove plaque. However, dental diets can help preserve oral health by reducing tartar and plaque production by about 30%. Adding water additives or using certain chews and treats with VOCC council approval can also help protect your dog's teeth at home.
How do I know if my dog needs to have its teeth professionally cleaned?
Ideally, dogs should get a professional dental cleaning once a year to preserve oral health. Signs at home that indicate your pet should come in for a dental cleaning include a lot of tartar and plaque accumulation at the gum line, red gums, bad breath, gum recession, bleeding gums when brushed or touched, reduced intake of food, pawing at the mouth, or dropping food.
Does my dog need to undergo anesthesia for a dental cleaning?
Yes, your dog needs to undergo anesthesia for a dental cleaning. We use a lot of water during cleaning, and unfortunately, dogs cannot use a suction device, which makes water problematic for their airway. To keep your pet safe, they need to be anesthetized so we can place a breathing tube to ensure their airway is safe. Additionally, we use sharp instruments that can be uncomfortable at the gum line, so anesthesia is necessary for a safe and effective procedure.
What should I expect for my dog to experience during a dental cleaning?
A dental procedure is a day procedure. Dogs are usually admitted in the morning and go home that same afternoon. They should come in fasted, then they'll be sedated and put under anesthesia. We monitor their anesthesia with a lot of equipment and a dedicated technician. Once under anesthesia, we can perform a better evaluation of their mouth with an oral exam and dental x-rays. At that point, we decide the next steps, call you to discuss them, and proceed with the cleaning and any recommended extractions.
If you're searching for veterinary care you can rely on, we're here to help. Call (306) 955-6111 or email contact@forestgrovevet.com to schedule your pet's appointment. Our team is committed to keeping your pet happy and healthy.