Many dog owners wrongly believe that their dog’s teeth will take care of themselves. After all, if dogs were meant to brush their teeth, nature would have given them a way to do so, right? If you think that your best furry friend doesn’t need your help maintaining their oral care, think again. There are many reasons that you need to pay close attention to your dog’s teeth. Although the best medicine is always prevention, there is always the chance that your dog could develop oral disease that requires a specialist like Veterinary Dental Care. We are here to help!
What is Dog Dental Disease?
Just like humans, dogs can have dental disease that affects their gums and teeth, and also like humans, it begins with a build-up of plaque due to bacteria growth. Plaque that remains on the teeth without being removed leads to tartar, and when tartar makes its way above the gums, it requires professional cleaning to remove. But don’t wrongly assume that you have to see the tartar for it to be there.
What are the Signs of Dental Disease in Dogs?
Not all dogs will show signs of disease, and unfortunately, they can’t tell you when they are in pain or that something is wrong. There are other signs that you might be able to spot, however, which indicate that your dog is having oral issues, like:
- Excessive drooling
- Bleeding in the mouth
- Loose teeth
- An inability or refusal to drink or eat
- Chronic bad breath
Why You Need to Help With Oral Care for Your Dog
Just as if your dog were a child, they need your help to maintain good oral health. There are five main reasons that you need to help keep your dog’s gums and teeth clean and healthy.
Prevent Tooth Loss
When a dog’s teeth or gums become infected or diseased, there is a good chance that they could lose a tooth. When dogs don’t have the teeth they need, it can affect their nutrition.
Preventing Chronic Halitosis
If you can’t stand your dog’s breath, then that is a sign that they need your help. Chronic bad breath isn’t what animals just have; it is a sign that something is wrong, and if you don’t address it, it could lead to tooth loss, decay, or pain for your dog!
Pain and Quality of Life
Dental disease is something that can have a profound effect on your dog’s quality of life. Not only will tooth loss and decay reduce their ability to gain proper nourishment; these issues will leave them in pain that you might not be able to see. You love your dog and want to make sure that they have the best life possible. Oral care is a part of being healthy and happy.
Preventing Organ Damage
When there is an excess of bacteria in the mouth it can enter the bloodstream and affect the kidneys, liver, and heart. If the bacteria is allowed to spread, it can lead to organ damage and make your dog very sick. If you ensure that their oral health is good, you can increase their overall health.
Preventing Progressive Disease
Statistics tell us that most dogs develop dental disease by age three, which means that it is more common than most dog owners know. If you prevent it to begin with, you are giving your dog a healthier future and happier life.
If you think that your dog is doing just fine because they have white teeth and don’t seem to be suffering, think again. Oral disease is prevalent in dogs without many owners even recognizing it. The little care that it takes to keep your dog’s mouth healthy is well worth it. Once disease has started, however, you need the help of a specialist like Veterinary Dental Care. Contact our office today if you believe that your dog has any oral issue that needs to be addressed.