Doggy Dental Care

Did you know that bad breath is one of the most common signs of dental issues in dogs? Man’s Best Friend isn’t exactly renowned for having minty-fresh breath, but your pet’s doggy kisses shouldn’t make you wince, either. Actually, Fido can be afflicted by many different dental problems. Dental troubles are no more fun for dogs than they are for us! A Braselton, GA discusses doggy dental care in this article.

Your canine pal can develop several different dental problems. Gum disease is very common in our furry friends: by some estimates, over 80 percent of adult dogs have it. Although gum disease is painless and asymptomatic at first, it can lead or contribute to serious health issues, because the infection can travel from Fido’s mouth to his major organs. Some of the other dental problems that can affect Man’s Best Friend include abscesses; infections; and broken, chipped, or misaligned teeth.

Make sure your pooch sees the vet at least once a year for thorough examinations. In between visits, watch for signs of dental problems. These include excessive drool; swelling; bad breath; visible tartar buildup; and a lack of interest in playing, chewing, and/or eating. If Fido has any of these symptoms, contact your vet right away to set up an appointment. For some issues, such as tartar buildup, a simple deep cleaning may be all that’s needed. Other problems will be handled on an individual basis. It’s worth noting that cosmetic issues aren’t the main concern when it comes to doggy dental care: the focus is on problems that will cause your pooch pain and/or impact his health.

There are several ways for you to keep your pet’s mouth healthy at home. Brushing those not-so-pearly-whites is one of the best things you can do to keep Fido’s teeth in good condition. To get your pooch used to the process, start by just rubbing his teeth and gums. Then, you can move on to doggy toothbrushes and toothpastes. If your canine pal won’t sit still to get those choppers cleaned, then try using dental toys, treats, or chews. It’s also important to make sure your furry friend always has plenty of fresh water and suitable chew toys.

Do you know or suspect that your pet has dental trouble? We can help! Please contact us, your Braselton, GA animal clinic, today!