February is apparently pet dental health month. (There are so many ‘special’ months and days now I can’t keep up. If every day is special then none are…oh dear, I’m beginning to sound like Himself…)
Anyway, your dog’s dental health is more important to their overall health than you might think. Dental decay and plaque build up can be very painful for your pet and can cause you even more distress, as doggy dental work is the commonest cause of veterinary expense in younger dogs. Disease of the gums (periodontal disease is the posh name) can have a serious impact on your dog’s general health too.
Studies have shown that over 80% of dogs have some gum disease by the time they’re 3 years old. Gum disease is five times more common in dogs than in humans, because dogs have more alkaline mouths, which means it’s easier for the bacteria that react with saliva and food to form plaque.
Plaque leads to inflamed gums (gingivitis), which if not treated, can lead to destroyed gum tissue and if severe can lead to tooth and bone loss and even jaw fracture. Plaque hardens over time and produces tartar.
Bad breath is a common sign of gum disease. (Just think what your breath would smell like if you didn’t brush your teeth for a few days.)
It can become difficult for dogs to eat if their mouth is sore, so they may go off their food, or only eat with one side of their mouth, or only eat soft food. Dogs don’t always show they are in pain, so watch for reddened gums, blood in drinking water, or on tug toys, or on chews. They might paw at their mouths, or dribble. If you are in any doubt, please check with your vet.
Gingivitis is reversible but periodontitis is irreversible. Bacteria from the damaged gums get into the blood stream every time your dog chews and this can lead to heart, lung and kidney infections.
Small dogs such as Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Dachshunds and Toy Poodles are more prone to developing periodontal disease than larger breeds.
Brushing your dog’s teeth regularly will keep them clean, reduce plaque and tartar and keep your dog’s breath fresh. Your dog will be healthier and you’ll reduce the risk and the severity of the significant pain and discomfort that dogs can get from dental decay and periodontal disease.
There’s good evidence that regular teeth brushing improves dog’s health and might even help them live longer. It definitely reduces veterinary costs for cleaning and dental treatment and reduces risk – dental vet work requires a general anaesthetic for your pet.
Spend some time getting your dog used to having his mouth handled and opened, as we teach in our Perfect Pet classes. Teach him to tolerate or even enjoy having his teeth cleaned with a toothbrush, or (my personal preference) a finger guard “brush” and brush his teeth regularly.
Dental sticks and chews and dental toys can help but they are no substitute for regular tooth brushing.
Finally, please make sure you use doggy toothpaste – human toothpaste is dangerous for dogs.
Keep teeth cleaning!
Carol