Periodontal disease affects the area around the teeth and will eventually lead to tooth loss. Gum disease also called periodontal disease is a common dog health problem. In fact, 8 out of 10 dogs over the age of three have dental problems. Gum disease can’t be reversed, but with the right care you can slow it down or stop it. Prevent this by brushing your dog’s teeth, using the step-by-step guide included here.
Animation showing the evolution of tartar in dogs
Why should you care?
Because, if left untreated, dental disease can spread and cause infection in your pet’s mouth, blood and even vital organs.
Animation showing the spreading of bacteria to the heart causing endocarditis:
Animation showing the spread of bacteria to the kidneys causing nephritis:
How do dogs develop dental problems?
Trouble begins when plaque forms from food particles on your dog's un-brushed teeth. The plaque eventually hardens into tartar; both irritate your pet's gums. Signs that your dog may have dental problems include:
- Bad breath
- Discolored teeth
- Red or swollen gums
- Difficulty chewing or eating
- Weight loss
- Drooling
- Tearing or swelling below one eye
- Nasal discharge
- Blood in saliva
How do I train my dog to brush his or her teeth?
The same way you keep your own teeth and gums healthy: regular brushing. Ideally you'd brush your dog's teeth every day. If you can't manage that, three times a week is good.
Most pets accept brushing if approached in a gentle manner. Start when they are young, if you can. It's quite easy, but even older pets will accept the process. Start slowly, using a soft cloth to wipe the teeth, front and back, in the same way you will eventually use the toothbrush. Do this twice daily and after about two weeks your dog will have become familiar with it all. Then take the toothbrush, soak it in warm water and start brushing twice daily for several days, only adding the toothpaste once your pet accepts this brushing.
Step by step technique:
- Use a dog toothbrush, a soft child's toothbrush, a finger toothbrush, or gauze or cotton around your finger
- Use toothpaste made for dogs. People toothpaste can harm your pet.
- Start with just a bit of toothpaste on your finger and rub it on the inside of your dog's cheek. Praise your dog as he or she licks the paste. Then try the same thing with a toothbrush.
- Start brushing for a few seconds and build up to a full minute.
- Pay special attention to the inside tooth surfaces, the upper back molars, and the canines.
Animation of brushing of the dog’s teeth:
Video on brushing of the dog's teeth:
What can I do in addition to brushing?
- Try a 'dental formula' dog food. This type of food may help scrape bacteria and plaque off your dog's teeth.
- Make sure your dog always has plenty of chewable toys and treats available. These include bones, rawhide, knobby toys, rope toys and floss toys.
Animation showing the mechanism of action of dental chews:
Animation showing the mechanism of action of 'dental diets':
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