Smelling bad dog breath is just part of being a dog owner, right? Wrong!
When it comes to taking care of your dog’s health, most pet owners think about vaccinations, regular vet visits, nutritious food, and exercise. Unfortunately, an oral care regimen isn’t a top priority for them. But it should be, because 4 out of 5 dogs over age 3 develop periodontal disease. *
How teeth & gum problems begin.
Every time your dog eats, food particles stick to their teeth—and where there’s food, there’s bacteria. If not removed, food particles mix with saliva and bacteria to form plaque.
Within a few days, plaque calcifies and hardens into tartar. Tartar also provides a home for more plaque buildup, which can irritate the gums, and may result in a common condition known as gingivitis.
Warning signs of gingivitis include:
- Bad breath
- Reddening and swelling of the gums where they meet the teeth
- Bleeding of the gums
Gingivitis is reversible with proper oral care. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a non-reversible stage of periodontal disease. This condition can result in bone and tooth loss, as well as infection. So, as you can see, it’s important to begin an oral care routine early in your dog’s life—and then maintain it daily.
You have an oral hygiene routine to keep your teeth and mouth clean. So why not take a few steps to help keep your dog’s teeth and mouth fresh, too?
Here are steps you can take to look after your dog’s oral care.
Daily brushing— It might sound intimidating but brushing your dog’s teeth will keep their breath fresher. It also reduces plaque and tartar build-up, which can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Most pet stores stock special finger brushes or dog toothbrushes that slip over your finger to brush your dog’s teeth. Canine toothpastes in appetising flavours help make the experience a little more enjoyable for your dog. Never brush your dog’s teeth with toothpaste developed for people.
Regular veterinary exams and cleanings— In addition to toothbrushing, regular dental exams and cleanings by your veterinarian will help to keep your dog’s mouth healthy. Your vet can help spot and treat problems before they become more serious issues.
Feed them a daily dental treat – Specially designed dog teeth-cleaning treats like Pedigree® DENTASTIX™ chews, help reduce tartar build-up by up to 80%, support gum health and have a unique x-shape designed to help clean between the teeth and down to the gum line by your dog’s natural chewing action. Plus, who doesn’t love a tasty treat?
