Dog Dental Care - How to Take Care of Your Dog's Teeth

Keeping your dog's teeth clean and healthy is an important part of their healthcare regime. Without proper care, dental disease can develop. Our veterinarians at Medford are here to guide you in pet dental care and teach you how to clean a dog's teeth.

The Importance of Dog Dental Care

Maintaining your furry friend's oral hygiene is crucial to their overall well-being. Unfortunately, dogs are prone to developing periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, as early as three years old. If left untreated, this dental issue can severely impact your pet's long-term health. 

Research has revealed a correlation between periodontal disease and heart disease in both humans and dogs. This is because bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream, harm heart function, and affect other organs. Moreover, gum erosion, missing or damaged teeth, and oral pain are significant problems arising from poor oral health. 

To keep your dog's mouth healthy, a combination of at-home oral care routines and dental treats can effectively control plaque and tartar buildup. However, the most foolproof way to safeguard your pup's oral health is to take them for an annual dental exam and cleaning at the vet's office. Neglecting your dog's dental hygiene can lead to gingivitis, periodontal disease, bad breath, and, in severe cases, tooth decay, pain, and loss. Don't wait until it's too late - schedule your dog's annual dental appointment today.

Professional Dog Dental Care

To keep your furry friend's teeth healthy and strong, our expert vets at Siskiyou Veterinary Hospital located Medford suggest scheduling a dental appointment for them at least once a year or even more frequently if they're experiencing persistent dental problems. Our team will carefully examine your dog's oral health during the appointment, looking for tooth decay and periodontal disease signs.

During the appointment, our team will carefully examine your dog's oral health, looking for signs of tooth decay and periodontal disease, such as:

Suppose you observe any signs of periodontal disease in your furry friend, such as a decline in appetite, irregular chewing habits, excessive drooling, difficulty eating, foul breath, or other unusual symptoms. In that case, it's essential to contact your veterinarian promptly. Early intervention can prevent the progression of oral health problems and prevent unnecessary discomfort for your pet. 

Your trusted vet will conduct a comprehensive dental examination of your pet, including a tooth-by-tooth assessment and charting, just like a human dentist would. This will allow us to identify oral health issues and create a personalized treatment plan. 

During the procedure, your pet will be under a safe and comfortable sedation to ensure a stress-free experience. We will thoroughly clean and polish their teeth using state-of-the-art equipment, including those above and below the gum line. Our team will examine the teeth using probes and x-rays, and to prevent future decay and damage, we will apply a fluoride treatment followed by a dental sealant to combat plaque buildup. 

If your pet is experiencing advanced periodontal disease, our dedicated team will collaborate with you to design a customized treatment plan to restore their oral health and alleviate any discomfort.

Is there any recovery time needed after your dog has a teeth cleaning?

While every canine is unique, it's common for your furry friend to feel better after anesthesia within a few hours. However, sometimes, complete recovery may take 24 to 48 hours. During this period, your dog may display signs of grogginess and a decreased appetite.  

What is the cost of dental cleaning for dogs?

While every canine is unique, it's common for your furry friend to feel better after anesthesia within a few hours. However, sometimes, complete recovery may take 24 to 48 hours. During this period, your dog may display signs of grogginess and a decreased appetite.

How to Clean Your Dog's Teeth

You may wonder, 'Should I brush my dog's teeth?' Our vets believe that starting a regular oral hygiene routine for your pup while they are young can help prevent dental issues from arising as your pet gets older, including brushing your dog's teeth.

Here are a few ways to keep your dog's mouth healthy:

• Use a finger brush from your vet or a child's toothbrush to brush your pet's teeth daily to remove plaque or debris. It's as simple as brushing your teeth. If your dog resists cleaning their teeth, try some doggie toothpaste in flavors your pooch will find irresistible. These special dog-friendly kinds of toothpaste can turn a chore into a treat.
• Use a plaque prevention product (your vet can recommend some), which you can apply to your pet's teeth and gums. These products act as a barrier to prevent plaque buildup.
• Offer your pup treats such as dental chews or food designed to help prevent plaque buildup and tartar.
• Take your dog to the vet for a dental exam and cleaning every year or if it shows signs of an oral health problem, such as a broken tooth or discolored teeth.

Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.

Is it time for your dog to have their teeth examined and professionally cleaned? Reach out to our Medford veterinarians today to schedule an appointment.