If you have a dog then you likely know how important routine dental care is for their overall health and this includes dental cleanings. Our vets in Deer Park talk about when and why you should have your dog's teeth cleaned and the signs that it may be time to bring your pup in for professional dental care.
Do dogs need their teeth cleaned?
You may be wondering if dogs need dental cleaning and the answer is absolutely!
A dental cleaning for your dog can include a thorough dental examination, teeth cleaning, and polishing to remove the tartar and periodontal disease-causing plaque. This will need to be done while your dog is under general anesthesia.
Once anesthetized, your Deer Park Animal Hospital vets with the help of their veterinary assistants will examine the mouth of your dog, noting any abnormalities. A dental probe will be used to evaluate gum bleeding and periodontal pockets where food can accumulate and decay if not properly cared for.
When periodontal disease is advanced, it may not be possible to save the badly affected teeth, which may need to be extracted either during the procedure or at a later time.
When should I get my dog's teeth cleaned?
It is recommended that you get your dog's teeth cleaned once a year, although it varies from dog to dog. Certain dog breeds require more dental cleanings, so be sure to ask your Deer Park Animal Hospital vets if your dog needs more cleanings.
During a dental cleaning service, your pet will be put under anesthesia for your dog's safety and the safety of the staff. The vet will conduct X-rays first to see if there are any underlying issues.
How to Tell When Your Dog Needs a Dental Cleaning
An easy way to tell if your dog needs a teeth cleaning is just by looking at their teeth. A dog's teeth will show a buildup of plaque. If you notice some plaque buildup or gingivitis in your dog's mouth, it's probably time for a dental cleaning.
These issues will only get worse if they aren't addressed early on, and they can lead to serious dental issues and sensitivity for your dog.
Signs of Dental Problems in Dogs:
- Bad breath (Halitosis)
- Discolored or yellowing teeth
- Receding and/or bleeding gums (Gingivitis)
- Drooling (more than average)
- Loose or missing teeth
- Poor appetite
- Sneezing and nasal discharge (from an abscess that breaks into the nasal passages)
What You Can Do At Home
The best thing you can do is brush your dog's teeth at home frequently! The more the better but if you can get in two or three brushings per week you will be in good shape. The more you brush your dog's teeth, the more they become used to it and it becomes easier to do daily.
Where can I get my dog's teeth cleaned?
If you need to be shown how to brush your pet’s teeth feel free to contact Deer Park vets and we will get you started in the right direction.
To schedule professional teeth cleaning for your dog, you can contact our team at Deer Park Animal Hospital. Similar to your annual checkup at the dentist, your dog or cat should see us annually for a dental examination. Pets who are more prone to dental issues than others may need to come in more often.
Our vets can assess, diagnose and treat dental health problems in cats and dogs.
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.