Plaque is bacteria, saliva, and cellular waste that develops on the surface of the teeth’s enamel. A tartar is formed when food particles build up on a plaque, causing it to become stiff, thick, and yellow (calcified). By the time they’re two or three years old, most dogs’ teeth have developed tartar. If left untreated, tartar causes gingivitis (inflamed, unhealthy, and painful gums), halitosis (poor breath), and periodontal gum disease, resulting in tooth loss and discomfort. The germs might travel via the circulation to other bodily organs such as the heart, kidneys, and liver, causing chronic illness or death.
Dental Care for Dogs
Your pet’s dental care should start the moment you bring them home. Dental illness manifests itself in the following ways:
- Difficulty of breathing
- Decrease in appetite or discomfort when eating
- Weight loss
- Tooth discoloration
- Swollen or reddened gums
- Tooth Loss
- Nose bleeding
- Teary or swelling eyes
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Preventive Pet Dental Care
To keep your pet’s teeth clean, give them some crunchy food at every meal, like kibble or biscuit-type food. Raw meaty bones and canine dental toys may also help with tooth cleaning (bare-bones provide no benefit and may damage the teeth). If you toss stones for your dog to fetch, his teeth will be damaged. An antiseptic spray administered to your pet’s mouth may be beneficial if they have gingivitis. To discuss this, make an appointment with your veterinarian.
Over 80% of cats and dogs have some kind of dental disease. Prevent this terrible fate. A pet dentist Steten Island can assist your pet with anything from routine dental checkups, cleanings, and polishing to dental x-rays and procedures.
Food
Plaque buildup may be reduced by feeding your pet firm dry kibble, which is a natural abrasive. It’s also an easy and effective way to clean your pet’s teeth using dental bones and flossie-type chews.
Chewable Toys
Another fun and simple technique to prevent tartar is to use suitable chew toys. In our toy section, we provide a wide assortment of toys.
Brushing
Brushing your pet’s teeth is one of the most efficient methods to avoid tartar. Yes, it doesn’t seem easy, and it isn’t. The best way to go about it is to make it an enjoyable experience for your pet right away. Your veterinarian may suggest that you brush your pet’s teeth.
Dip your finger in dog toothpaste and massage your dog’s gum line and teeth to clean his teeth. Clean his teeth and gums with a dog toothbrush or a finger tooth glove when he’s grown used to it. You may get the toothbrush, gloves, and toothpaste in the supplement area of your local pet shop.
Cleaning and examinations
Your pet, like you, should get regular dental examinations. The particular requirements of each pet determine cleaning frequency, so see your veterinarian every six months at the very least.
It’s crucial to be on the lookout for indicators of potential canine dental issues and to treat them as soon as possible. The dog’s breath should be clean, and the lips and tongue should be salmon pink. If your dog refuses to eat or drink, see your veterinarian.
Related: Why Should You Get a Wellness Plan for Your Pet? Keep reading for more information.