Is Dog Teeth Cleaning Necessary?

As pet owners, we all want the best for our four-legged family members. Here we’ll shed some light on why keeping your dog’s teeth clean isn’t just about keeping their breath fresh, but about supporting every aspect of their health and preventing oral conditions that can affect your pet’s life. If you have any questions or concerns about your dog’s dental care, reach out to Animal Family Veterinary Care Center in Davenport, Iowa at (563) 391-9522. Our friendly team is here to help!

The Basics of Dog Dental Care and Teeth Cleaning

Dog teeth cleaning is more than a cosmetic concern. It’s a critical part of your dog’s healthcare routine. This process involves the removal of plaque and tartar build-up on your dog’s teeth. Just like humans, dogs can suffer from gum disease, tooth decay, and even more serious health issues if their teeth are not properly cared for. Regular dental checkups and cleanings at our veterinary clinic can help prevent these problems and keep your dog’s mouth healthy.

What Professional Dog Teeth Cleaning Entails

While regular home care is a vital start for your pet, professional teeth cleaning by a veterinary expert is essential for maintaining your dog’s oral health. At Animal Family Veterinary Care Center, our skilled veterinarians perform thorough dental examinations, dental X-rays, and teeth cleanings, which are essential to preventing dental diseases and detecting underlying oral health issues as early as possible.

Our professional cleaning process involves removing plaque and tartar from both above and below the gum line with special scaling tools, something that cannot be achieved with brushing alone. This not only ensures a cleaner mouth but also prevents potential health complications related to dental diseases.

Dog teeth cleanings are recommended as a routine part of your pet’s care because plaque and tartar won’t stay away forever, and the toothbrush can’t clean under the gums. However, brushing your pet’s teeth daily and supplementing their care with other methods as suggested by your veterinarian can further slow tartar buildup, and possibly extend the time between professional teeth cleanings.

Home Dental Care for Your Dog: Everyday Steps for Healthy Teeth

As a responsible pet owner, there are several things you can do at home to maintain your dog’s dental health. Daily brushing is the most effective way to keep your dog’s teeth clean. It might sound daunting at first, but with patience and the right approach, it can become a rewarding experience for you and your pet.

How to Brush Your Dog’s Teeth

Choose the Right Tools: Select a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste. Human toothpaste can be toxic to pets.

Start Slowly: Let your dog get used to the idea of having their teeth brushed. Start by letting them taste the toothpaste and gently massage their gums with your finger.

Be Gentle and Patient: Use soft, circular motions to brush your pet’s teeth. Focus on the gum line, where plaque tends to accumulate.

Make it Positive: Offer praise and treats to make the experience positive for your dog.

Preventing Disease Through Dental Hygiene

Neglecting your dog’s dental care can lead to painful infections and diseases that not only affect the mouth but can also have systemic impacts. Periodontal disease is a common outcome of poor dental hygiene in dogs. It can cause swollen, bleeding gums, bad breath, and tooth loss. More seriously, the bacteria from periodontal disease can enter the bloodstream, potentially affecting the heart, liver, and kidneys. Regular teeth cleaning can help prevent these issues, contributing to a longer, healthier life for your dog.

Partner with Your Vet for Optimal Dental Health

While home care is important, professional dog teeth cleanings and regular checkups at our veterinary clinic are a must for your pet. During a dental checkup, vets can spot early signs of problems and provide thorough cleanings that remove plaque and tartar build-up. Remember, prevention is always the best medicine when it comes to your dog’s health.

Does Your Dog Need to Have Their Teeth Cleaned?

If you notice these signs, contact us to schedule an oral exam and teeth cleaning for your dog:

• Your dog has bad breath, discolored teeth, or changes in their eating habits.
• There’s visible tartar build-up and they have red or swollen gums.
• Your dog drops their food while eating or struggles to chew.

With the right home care and regular veterinary checkups, you can ensure your dog maintains a healthy, happy smile. Animal Family Veterinary Care Center in Davenport, Iowa, is equipped with the expertise and tools necessary for providing top-notch dental care for your dog. Don’t hesitate to call us at (563) 391-9522 to schedule a dental checkup or to get more information about your dog’s dental health.