How Often Should Your Dogs Get Their Teeth Cleaned?

Just as you take care of your own teeth, it's essential to do the same for your dog. To ensure your dog's teeth are healthy and free of painful problems, it is vital to take them in regularly for dental checkups. Dental disease is a common affliction of dogs, affecting almost all of them before age three.

 

Bacteria from dental disease can spread from your dog's gums into his bloodstream, where it may travel to other parts of the body and affect major organs. But with regular dental care, you can prevent these health problems and keep your dog healthy for years to come.

 

How Can You Tell If Your Dog Has A Dental Disease?

Dental diseases that are common in dogs include halitosis (bad breath), gingivitis (inflammation of the gums), and periodontal disease. Halitosis can serve as an early warning sign for bacterial infections of the mouth.

 

Left untreated, gingivitis may develop into periodontal disease—which can cause bone and tissue loss. If your dog exhibits the following symptoms, consult with a veterinarian and explore possible solutions:

 

• Chewing using only one side of the mouth
• Difficulty eating 
• Swollen and bleeding gums
• Drooling
• Bumps inside the mouth
• Discolored and loose teeth
• Loss of weight

 

How Often Should You Clean A Dog's Teeth?

Adult dogs should visit the vet at least once a year for dental checkups. On the other hand, small and brachycephalic breeds—including bulldogs, pugs, Shih Tzus, e.t.c should have their teeth cleaned every six months.

 

Dental cleaning is usually recommended for dogs and cats at the age of two to three. Small-breed dogs should have their teeth cleaned earlier, no later than when they turn two years old.

 

If your pet's dental work is done later in life, you run the risk of having to have teeth removed that could be saved. Even if a visual inspection of their mouth indicates little tartar buildup or gum disease, there are often hidden problems under the gums that can only be discovered through detailed examination and x-rays.

 

Tips To Keep Your Dog's Teeth Clean And Healthy Between Cleanings

Most dogs have all their permanent teeth by the time they are six months old. It's best to start doing regular dental care around this time, so both of you get accustomed to it gradually.

Here are some tips for keeping your pal's teeth white and healthy:

 

Regular Brushing: To help ensure your dog's dental health, start brushing his or her teeth as soon as possible. Some canine toothpaste varieties come in yummy flavors like chicken and beef—perfect for pups.

 

Treat your pooch with dental chews and toys: Chewing helps remove plaque from your pup's teeth. When you're buying a chew for your dog, make sure it contains no artificial colors or other harmful ingredients.

 

Watch your dog's diet: If you feed your dog many commercial foods high in starch, it can cause stomach problems and damage their teeth. You can offer many crunchy, raw foods to your dog as treats. Some of them, such as carrots, green beans, and celery, can freshen a dog's breath.

 

The Animal Hospital On Milam Road Can't Wait To Welcome Your Pet Into Our Family

As a full-service animal hospital, the Animal Hospital on Milam Road believes in the convenience of having all your pet's needs catered to under one roof. We provide quality dental services, including dental cleanings, so give us a call to schedule an appointment for your pet today.