Article Title: Tooth And Dental Care For Dogs
Author: Sandy Schneider
One of the most important things we can do to protect the
health and actually promote longevity in our dogs is tooth
brushing! Dental health is critically essential for wellness
of the major systems of the entire body! More on this and other
dog care subjects can be found at
http://bichonworld.
Imagine what would happen to us if we didn't brush regularly
each day! We'd have horrible breath, of course. But even worse,
the resulting periodontal disease would mean multiple and severe
health problems. The same is true for our 4-legged best friends.
Did you know that periodontal disease is the most common
infectious disease in dogs? (This is also true for cats).
Studies indicate that more than 85% of all dogs 4 years and
older suffer from periodontal disease! Not surprisingly, then,
it is reported that by 3 years of age, 85% of dogs have begun
to experience some phase of gum disease.
The progression of the disease begins with the formation of
plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms in the mouth at
the gum line. Amazingly, 1 milligram of plaque contains more
than 1 trillion bacteria - disease causing bacteria!
Plaque left on the teeth hardens into tartar which sticks to
teeth like cement. The tartar leads to gingivitis, or gum
disease, a condition in which actual gum damage begins. The
gums become red and swollen, not to mention painful! Once this
happens, the gums start to recede from the teeth, creating even
more space for bacteria to grow.
Periodontal disease is now "off to the races" with a variety of
very harmful effects. The roots of the teeth loosen as infection
starts to cause bone loss. In smaller dogs, like our Bichon
breeds, the bone that holds the teeth is thinner than that of
medium-sized and larger dogs, so gum disease is likely to be
even more of a problem for them.
Perhaps the most devastating and deadly effects of periodontal
disease occur as the bacteria enters our companion's
bloodstream through the mouth and gum tissues. This leads to
damage of tissue in the heart, kidneys, and liver, and even the
lungs and nervous system.
Unfortunately, it is a little known fact that neglecting the
dental health of our beloved little buddies can cause
potentially fatal heart-disease, kidney-disease, and
liver-disease.
The good news is that all this can be prevented! However,
please, don't be fooled into thinking that using dry dog food
and providing bones or other chew toys is an effective solution
for the necessary dental hygiene!
To maintain a healthy mouth and to prevent the serious
conditions that result from ignoring dental needs, 2 things are
needed:
* a tooth-brushing routine (preferably daily), and
* periodic professional cleaning by your veterinarian.
There is more good news! Tooth brushing can be done very
quickly. Also, there are a variety of tasty doggie toothpastes
and gels on the market to make our task easier. (Be sure to
avoid using "human toothpaste" since those products are made to
spit out and not to swallow!)
Although the thought of daily tooth-brushing for your dog might
seem a little daunting at first, you'll find it very quick and
easy once it's become a habit. Just keep in mind that what
you're doing is adding to the quality and years to your best
friend's life!
About The Author: Sandy Schneider, author, writes on a variety
of subjects of interest to dog owners and fanciers. Please
visit her http://www.bichonwo
site soon. Please go to http://www.bichonwo
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