Dog Dental Disease: What To Look For And Dental Cleaning Tips

Puppies have beautiful white teeth and sweet-smelling puppy breath. As puppies grow, so do their teeth, even growing in more teeth, and they lose their puppy breath. If you don't take care of your dog's teeth, their beautiful white teeth can turn brown or even black and their breath can have a foul odor. The discoloration and foul odor of your dog's teeth could indicate a problem such as dental disease. See below for tips on what to look for to spot a potential problem, as well as dental cleaning tips.

Bleeding Gums

If your dog's gums are bleeding, his teeth are discolored, and he is doing things he normally doesn't such as drooling excessively or pawing at his mouth, it could indicate periodontal disease. Your dog could get an infection in his teeth, could lose some teeth and could potentially get an infection that may spread to his organs such as his heart, liver or lungs. Take your dog to the veterinarian for a checkup if you notice that his gums are bleeding.

Changes In Eating Habits

If your dog is having difficulty chewing, isn't eating quite as much, or is taking longer to chew his food, it could be an infection, such as an abscess, in his mouth. He may also be pawing at his mouth, or could have a change in his behavior. Your dog may require a root canal or a tooth extraction. Take your dog to the veterinarian for a checkup if you notice this change in your dog.

Excessive Drooling

If you notice your dog is drooling excessively, without there being food in front of his face, it could be a dental issue. Check your dog's teeth for loose or missing teeth, or for signs of being in pain. Your dog may be at risk for infection. Get him to the veterinarian to have his teeth inspected and cleaned to ensure he doesn't have an infection.

Dental Cleaning Tips:

  1. Use the right cleaning tools for the job. Be sure to use a dog toothbrush and toothpaste, not anything made for humans.
  2. Begin a routine with your dog by the time he's at least two years old. This way your dog is used to you cleaning his teeth and you can prevent potential dental issues.
  3. Have your dog's teeth cleaned professionally at least once per year by your veterinarian.
  4. Clean your dog's teeth at least two to three times per week. This will help keep your dog's teeth clean, breath fresh and prevent periodontal disease.

Your dog's teeth are important for your pooch to be able to chew his food properly. If you don't take good care of his teeth your dog is susceptible to periodontal disease and a number of other dental issues that can spread to his vital organs. If you spot a problem in your dog, get him to a professional like Brian E Hall for a dental cleaning.


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