How To Protect Your Dog From Gum Disease

Why your dog might have bad breath!

Dog smiling with grasshopper on its head. Image found at: https://www.thisdogslife.co/dog-cant-stop-smiling-when-grasshopper-lands-on-her-head/

What is periodontal disease? Why is it bad?

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease or gingivitis, is caused by poor oral health in dogs. Buildup of plaque, tartar, and bacteria causes the gums to become diseased. This extremely common infection leads to pain and further health concerns.

Dog with periodontal disease and plaque and tartar buildup. Image found at: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Zahnstein-Hund.jpg

Canine Periodontal disease causes more than bad breath.

Gum disease in dogs leads to severe conditions, chronic pain, broken jaws, and systemic infections like liver, heart, and kidney disease.

What are the symptoms of canine periodontal disease?

· Bad breath

· Tartar buildup on the teeth and gum-line

· Problems chewing or picking up food

· Red/bleeding gums

· Avoiding head or mouth from being touched

· Loose teeth

· Blood on toys or in drinking water

How you can protect your dog from gum disease:

1. Schedule regular dental cleanings

Before and After a professional cleaning. Image found at: https://veterinarydental.com/periodontics/

Veterinarians recommend scheduling a professional cleaning once every 6 months. Like we visit the dentist, our dogs need to have their teeth cleaned. During these procedures, the teeth are scaled; cleaned; and, in extreme cases, extracted.

2. Brush your dog’s teeth

Brushing dog's teeth. Image found at: https://www.cesarsway.com/7-tips-for-doggie-dental-care/

Veterinarians recommend brushing your dog's teeth daily. Brushing will prevent buildup of tartar and plaque. It takes 24-48 hours for plaque to form on your dog's teeth. Tartar can be removed by brushing, but when plaque is formed, it will take professional equipment to remove it.

Do not use human toothpaste. Veterinary clinics and pet supply stores sell toothpaste made specially for dogs. Human toothpaste is very dangerous for your dog!

3. Feed your dog a dental diet

Dog eating kibble. Image found at: https://www.mypet.com/pet-nutrition/help-my-pet-stopped-eating.aspx

Food manufacturers produce specific dental diets. These foods contain substances that can help prevent plaque and tartar buildup. Veterinarians may suggest this if your dog is especially susceptible to plaque buildup.

Common belief: feeding your dog hard kibble can prevent tartar and plaque buildup better than wet food. The friction caused by hard food helps to remove tartar. However, studies have not found significant differences between the two.

4. Chewing toys for your dog

Puppy chewing toy. Image found at: https://www.thelabradorsite.com/best-chew-toys-for-puppies/

Giving your dog toys that are meant for chewing can allow for extra protection from gum disease. Chewing removes much of the tartar that builds up on your dog's teeth. It is important to avoid hard chewing materials such as bones as they can fracture or break teeth.

NOTE: chew toys or raw hides cannot replace daily brushing nor professional cleanings.