Dogs get toothache too!

The average person would be horrified at the thought of not brushing their teeth or visiting a dentist for over ten years or more and yet many caring dog owners are prepared to accept the discoloration of teeth and malodorous breath as par for the course.  Dogs are susceptible to the same kind of teeth problems as us and therefore regular dental care is essential.

The primary cause of infection is plaque that accumulates on the teeth.  Plaque is a bacteria laden film that accumulates on a clean tooth and hardens into tartar, if it is left undisturbed, it may result in gingivitis that causes red swollen gums and bleeding.  Gingivitis can then lead to periodontal disease that is a collective term for various inflammations affecting the support apparatus of the teeth.  Some dogs are more predisposed to periodontal disease than others exactly as in humans.  Factors that have a tendency to encourage plaque are overcrowded teeth often seen in brachycephalic breeds (eg: boxers, pugs, bulldogs) and small dogs, crooked teeth, retained baby teeth and broken teeth with a roughened surface.  Other conditions may predispose dogs to periodontal disease such as poor diet, stress, poor immunity, renal failure and other diseases of the internal system. 

Apart from the visual appearance of the teeth and gums and a foul smell, symptoms of gum disease include loss of appetite and signs of discomfort.  Chronic infection of the mouth may also cause disease in other parts of the body such as the kidney and the heart.



What can be done?
The teeth should be cleaned regularly with a doggie toothbrush or a finger brush using specially formulated toothpaste for dogs.  Never use human toothpaste as it contains detergents that make it foam and, because dogs cannot rinse and spit like us, it will be swallowed and may irritate the stomach.  Dog toothpastes are meat or chicken flavoured and will make the cleaning process all the more pleasurable for the dog. 

Cleaning a dog’s teeth might sound a bit daunting but if introduced to it as a puppy, he will soon learn to accept it as part of the grooming routine.  Place the dog somewhere it is comfortable – a lap for small dogs or a grooming table, bigger dogs may prefer to stay on the floor and approach your dog from the side.  Hold the head back in one hand and start by introducing the brush to the outside of the teeth that are easy to get at. Once that is accepted, try to reach the teeth that are further back in the mouth.  Don’t worry if your dog doesn’t like this at first as the tongue movement will help to clean the teeth at the back and inside the mouth but do continue to brush the teeth at the front of the mouth on a daily basis.  As soon as you have finished the process reward your dog with a healthy treat or chew or a game with a favourite toy.  Persevere with teeth cleaning and making it a positive experience and your dog will soon gain confidence. 

One very good reason for attending your veterinary surgery for a regular check up is that your vet will be able to establish whether there is a need for a more thorough dental to be carried out under anaesthetic or surgical intervention. 

Dried foods and certain chewing toys can help with teeth cleaning although they are not as good as a brushing and if your dog has a particular problem in the dental department there are foods that your vet can prescribe that can help reduce plaque.