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Dog oral care

Dog Oral Care

Yes, canine dental care is just as important as human dental care.



But often, pet owners overlook dog oral care. People often think that dogs actually have bad breath and very few people brush their dog’s teeth frequently. Dog dental hygiene is just as important as exercise, grooming and nutrition.



It is advisable to pay attention to your dog’s pearly whites.

If you are able to catch dental problems early on, then it will prevent severe dental diseases. The best and easiest ways to keep track of your dog’s teeth is by looking at them regularly and keep track of signs and symptoms. To check your dog’s teeth, you need to lift up her lips from all around and check the front and back teeth closely.



Be careful and gentle. Also, about once in six months, take your dog to the veterinarian for a proper check up. You should also get in touch with your vet if you notice any of the following symptoms: bad breath, reluctance or whining while chewing, more salivation; puffy gums; bleeding gums, tartar, loose or missing teeth, or, anything unusual.

It is dangerous to ignore dental problems of your dog. If plaque is not cleaned, then it builds up and turns into tartar. Bacteria thrive in such places and then they eat away at the teeth and gums. Bad breath, oral pain, periodontal disease and tooth loss can happen as a result of this. Bacteria in the mouth can also affect other parts of the body, like kidneys and heart. It is advisable to visit a vet the moment you find out that your dog has dental problems.

Preventing dental disease in dog

You can so a lot to prevent dental disease in your dog. Chalk out a dog dental care routine early in your dog’s life, so that she gets used to you feeling her teeth, inspecting her mouth and brushing her teeth. Puppies have 28 teeth that fall out by the time they are six months old. By this time, you should be brushing your dog’s teeth. When you brush your dog’s teeth, do not use human toothpaste as this can make your dog sick. You have to use special enzymatic toothpaste. Use a long toothbrush initially so that your dog gets used to it. Ask your vet to show to show you a few techniques. You can also use oral rinses and dental treats.

Do visit your vet for dental and health examinations, and sometimes go in for a professional dental cleaning.

 
  Submitted on May 11, 2010