Luckily dogs are not as prone to cavities as human beings are. But despite the outdated thinking that a dog’s mouth is actually cleaner than a human’s, dogs can still develop oral health problems like tartar and plaque buildup and gingivitis. But it’s not just bad breath and yellow teeth you have to worry about – canine dental care in Idaho Falls involves so much more.
As with humans, canine dental problems can actually lead to life-threatening infections and problems that can lead to heart, liver, and kidney disease.Here’s how to practice proper canine dental care in Idaho Falls that will extend your dog’s life.
1. Brushing your dog’s teeth.The best brush to use is double-headed with the brushes at a 45 degree angle to clean below the gumline. Your dog might not like the tooth brushing at first, but hopefully, you can make it reasonably pleasant for both of you. Choose a time when your dog has had a decent amount of exercise, so he’s more inclined to sit still for the procedure. Start slowly and stop if your dog gets stressed, even if you don’t brush the whole mouth.
2. Start early when your dog is a puppy.Grown dogs can become comfortable with dog teeth cleaning but make things easier for yourself by starting when your dog is a puppy.
3. Choosing the right tooth paste for your dog.Do NOT use regular human toothpaste for your dog as most of them include fluoride, which is poisonous to dogs. You can find toothpaste formulated for dogs at most pet stores.
4. Choose dry food over soft food.If the tooth brushing doesn’t go well, there are other options for canine dental care in Idaho Falls. Crunchy kibble is better for your dog’s teeth than soft food, as soft food is more likely to stick to the teeth and cause decay.
5. Chew bones and chew toys can clean your pet’s teeth.There are many bones and chew toys that are specifically designed to strengthen your dog’s gums and teeth. Just make sure that they are safe your dog to chew on. Hard objects can cause broken teeth.Giving your dog a good bone to chew on can help get rid of buildup and keep teeth strong.
6. When you should seek dog canine dental care in Idaho Falls.Regardless of whether you brush your dog’s teeth or not, you should look inside his mouth every week or so. If you notice any of these signs of dental problems, take your dog to the vet:
• Bad breath;
• Change in eating or dog chewing habits;
• Pawing at the face or mouth;
• Depression;
• Excessive drooling;
• Misaligned or missing teeth;
• Discolored, broken, missing or crooked teeth;
• Red, swollen, painful or bleeding gums;
• Yellowish-brown tartar crust along the gum line;
• Bumps or growths within the mouth.
7. How often you should take your dog for canine dental care in Idaho Falls.Even with healthy teeth your dog should have his teeth checked by a professional every six to twelve months. Your vet should include a dental examination with a normal checkup but ask for it if they don’t.
Canine dental care in Idaho Falls can be a hassle for humans and dogs, but proper maintenance can be a money saver – and even a lifesaver – in the long run. Letting it go can lead to costly and often painful vet visits down the road. Call today to schedule an appointment to have your dog’s oral health care evaluated.
