Dogs and cats are very much at risk for developing dental problems and, sadly, 80% of dogs and 70% of cats show signs of oral disease by age three. Although our fur babies rarely get cavities, the formation of plaque and tartar can cause gingivitis, periodontitis and stomatitis.
Periodontal disease is very painful, with animals often suffering with it in silence. Pet parents can help avoid dental disease and the associated problems with basic dental care. This is critical to a pet's overall good health.
Did you know that by the proper brushing and maintenance of your dog's teeth you can add as much as 3-5 years to its life? The sad truth is that it is estimated that only 1 out of 10 pet parents make sure their pets' teeth are cared for. Untreated periodontal disease can spread bacteria and infection through the bloodstream and damage internal organs such as the heart, liver, and kidneys. It is vitally important to check your dog's or cat's mouth and teeth on a regular basis and be alert to the warning signs.
The Warning Signs to be Aware of...
Changes in appetite and/or eating habits
Bad breath, often dismissed as "doggy breath"
Drooling
Tarter and a yellow or brown discoloration at the gum line
Swollen, inflamed or bleeding gums
Abscessed teeth
Fractured teeth
Loose teeth or any sign of sensitivity when a tooth is touched
These symptoms, if present, require a visit to your veterinarian to avoid a possibly serious health problem.
If you are not brushing, don't delay in starting!
Brushing with toothbrushes designed specifically for pets is the best way to keep their teeth and gums healthy. Possible good choices: the Dual End Toothbrush, with each end being a different size and angled for better reach in your pet's mouth; or the now available Dental Kit, which includes a contoured toothbrush with two sizes of bristles, a soft finger toothbrush, toothpaste and instructions. The newest technology is the called Triple Head Toothbrush. It uses a unique, patented design that cleans the front, back, and sides of teeth to remove plaque build-up more efficiently with each stroke.
Pet toothbrushes are smaller, softer, and have a different shape to them than those used for people, in order to fit the unique contours of pointed animal teeth, as well as brush the front and back of the tooth at the same time.
However, the toothbrush is not the only option. There are also brushes you can slip on your finger such as the Finger Toothbrush to clean both teeth and gums. Then there is the option of Finger Toothbrush Gloves, an easy alternative to brushing your pets' teeth. These unique disposable, medical-grade PVC gloves feature bristles on thumb and forefinger. Lastly, Dental Swabs are filled with liquid that cleans teeth, soothes gums and freshens breath. And, pre-moistened, minty fresh Dental Wipes make it easy to practice good oral hygiene with your pet. Your choice as to what is best depends on the condition of your dog's gums, the size of its mouth, and your ability to do the job of cleaning the teeth.
Always use toothpaste that is specially formulated for pets such as veterinarians' preferred Enzymatic Toothpaste (available in Malt or Poultry) for dogs and cats. Never use toothpaste formulated for humans. Human toothpaste is much too strong, and can do more harm than good.
How Often Should You Brush or Clean Your Dog's or Pet's Teeth?
The more often you are able to brush and clean your dog's teeth the better. Dog and pet dental care should be a priority for maintaining your pet's good health. The best time to clean your pet's teeth is after the evening meal.
Brushing your dog's teeth should not be a chore for you or your dog. Ideally you should aim for daily but at least 3-times-a-week dental care, just as you know that daily dental care for yourself and your other family members is important.
Supplement Aids
Drinking Water Additives for dogs and cats were developed by veterinary dental specialists to help conveniently maintain pet dental health.
Also available are Oral Rinses for dogs and cats with Chlorhexidine 0.12% and Zince, which are antimicrobial oral rinses for reducing plaque and freshening breath in dogs and cats.
Treats
You can help achieve good oral hygiene for your pet with treats. Quality dental chews on the market are specifically designed to help control plaque and tartar buildup by their shape and texture, forcing a dog to chew vigorously, which scrapes away plaque and tartar. Favorites are Dental Rawhide Sticks, and Dental Bones, with the added benefit of Chlorophyll and Parsley Seed for extra clean teeth. For aggressive chewers, they are 100 percent all-natural and will give your dog lots of chewing pleasure. Also, Oral Hygiene Chews for dogs and cats. As simple as giving a daily treat, you will help remove plaque and prevent the buildup of harmful bacteria in your pet's mouth. All are intended to offer dogs and cats a satisfying chewing experience, fresh breath, and dental benefits.
Toys
Not only can your pet be entertained with toys but the actual removal of plaque can be accomplished by using toys; the chewing activity scrapes away plaque and tartar. Never give to your pet toys that are abrasive and can wear down the teeth. If your dog is an aggressive chewer, choose toys that are not so hard that a tooth can be broken on them.
Nutrition and Diet
For preventing tarter buildup and for maintaining clean teeth, give your dog raw, not cooked, knuckle bones (the joints) from your local butcher or meat counter at the supermarket. They have tendons and muscle meat to provide a nice oral workout as well as a healthy amount of natural calcium. Your dog will enjoy a knuckle bone, will be content and relaxed while chewing and a little sleepy afterwards. Supervise your dog to make sure it doesn't swallow a large piece, leading to choking or digestive problems. Raw carrots are a good substitute.
The Exam Schedule
Bring your animal to a vet for regular check-ups that include a dental visual and manual inspection for signs of gum disease, tooth discoloration, loose teeth and any signs of sensitivity or pain, especially if you see signs of tooth decay. Puppies should have their mouths examined as early as possible and again before four months of age, and another dental exam at six months. From one to three years of age, dental exams should be done annually, unless problems are noticed that should be looked at.
In the four to six year age range and if you have been successful in your brushing and cleaning efforts and your pet has excellent white teeth, annual exams may suffice. Otherwise, most pets in this age range and above should be checked every six months.
(CLICK HERE) for product information and dental care supplies, along with links to related articles -- Care of Your Dog's Teeth and Cleaning Your Dog's Teeth (CLICK HERE)