Dental Care For Dogs

Article Title: Dental Care For Dogs
Author: David Beart

It's often been said that a dog's mouth is cleaner than a
human's. That's never been proven, but the fact remains that
dogs put their mouths places humans would never dare to (or be
able to, for that matter). Dogs don't think twice about sifting
through garbage, digging in the yard and licking themselves
wherever they can reach. They also use their mouths to carry
toys as well as dirty "treasures" from the yard. With their
mouths working overtime, good dental care for dogs should be a
priority for any dog owner.

A dog's teeth can be a good indication of overall health. But
as important as good dental hygiene is for dogs, many dog owners
overlook it. Just like in humans, it's important to practice
routine oral maintenance on your dog. Not only can it help its
teeth stay healthy now, but it can also protect against more
serious issues later.

If bacteria are allowed to grow in a dog's mouth, plaque can
accumulate on the teeth. If it's not addressed, it can escalate
to more serious concerns. Since a dog's mouth is used to play
and eat, among other things, it's important to keep it in top
shape. The best way to do this is through maintenance and
prevention.

Believe it or not, most dogs three years of age and older have
some form of gum disease. If a dog's teeth are neglected, plaque
can form, setting the stage for advanced oral diseases. Plaque
can bind with minerals in a dog's saliva and create tartar,
which attaches to the teeth and can cause irritation to the
gums, or gingivitis. Left untreated, tartar can get under the
gum line and dissolve the bones that hold the teeth in place,
causing the teeth to become loose and possibly fall out.
Periodontal disease, as it's called, is treatable, but once your
dog's teeth fall out, there's little to be done. The best line
of defense is regular brushing and check-ups.

Home care is important, but it's also critical to have your
dog's teeth examined regularly by a professional. A simple
visual exam can be done in an office visit, but more
comprehensive care, such as x-rays and tartar removal, has to be
done while the dog is under sedation. It's safer for both the
dog and the medical staff, and it gives the vet an opportunity
to do a more thorough exam. Some vets even specialize in dental
care for dogs, so it's worthwhile to investigate your options.

It may take time before your dog is comfortable having its
teeth cleaned. If you use a toothbrush, be sure to get your pet
familiar with it, so he's more likely to allow you to use it. A
toothbrush allows you to reach teeth more effectively, but a
finger brush may be easier to maneuver. Just be sure it fits
well, so it won't fall off in your dog's mouth. Find a
toothpaste formulated for dogs. Human toothpaste is made to be
spit out, while a dog will swallow it, so don't use human
products, just to be on the safe side. Many dog toothpastes have
added flavors that are attractive to dogs, such as beef, chicken
or vanilla.

While brushing your dog's teeth, take this opportunity to
examine its mouth for any signs of disease. Bad breath (that
which is out of the ordinary for your dog), yellowing or crust
at the gum line, swelling, or pain when you touch your dog's
gums should be noted. These could be signs of infection and
should be addressed immediately. Not doing so could result in
tooth loss for your dog.

Another important consideration for healthy teeth is your dog's
toys. Excessive chewing on hard surfaces can lead to a dog's
teeth being damaged. If this occurs, bacteria can get into the
tooth and cause infection. Bones can splinter and lodge between
teeth, rocks can break teeth and toys can cause bleeding gums if
a dog chews too aggressively. Be sure to monitor your dog during
play time, and only give it toys that are appropriate for your
pet's size and activity level.

Your dog's food and treats can be a good tool for treating
plaque. Dry food can help attack plaque, while there are dog
treats on the market that are especially formulated to address
the issue of plaque and oral care.

Dental care for dogs consists of relatively simple maintenance.
Following these tips can keep your dog healthy for a lifetime.

About The Author: David Beart is owner of the
http://www.professorshouse.com , a site dedicated to family,
relationships, dog health, and household issues.

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