Why Canine Dental Examinations Are So Important
When it comes to dentistry, dogs generally don’t display obvious signs of trouble until it’s too late. Regular dental examinations can identify issues in time to save your furry companion from pain and diseases that can spread throughout their body.
Periodontal Disease in Dogs
The most significant dental concern in humans is typically tooth decay and cavities. Less than 10% of dogs get cavities, however. They are more likely to suffer from periodontal disease and broken teeth (from chewing or biting inflexible objects).
Two-thirds of dogs over 3 years of age have some degree of periodontal disease. Periodontium is the term used to refer to the tissues surrounding the teeth. When they get infected, they become painful and inflamed. Infection occurs when bacteria collect on the teeth and form a layer called plaque that’s difficult to remove or penetrate. If left alone, it mineralizes into rough tarter, which attracts even more bacteria. It always starts with the gums, resulting in gingivitis. But if left untreated, the infection will reach the bone. Eventually, it may loosen and dislodge the affected teeth.
In addition to causing your pet pain, discomfort, bad breath, and tooth loss, the bacteria from periodontal disease can enter the bloodstream and cause organ failure. Your dog's heart, kidneys, and liver could all be affected, making him seriously ill, possibly with fatal results. So, it's essential to keep your dog's teeth free of plaque and tartar by having them cleaned regularly.
What Should You Expect with Canine Dental Cleaning?
As a general rule, an annual cleaning from the age of 2 years will be sufficient for most breeds. Smaller breeds may require cleaning more often as their teeth are more closely packed. Cleanings can be undertaken by general practitioner veterinarians or veterinary dentists who have specialized training, including pain management and X-ray and CT scan interpretation.
The dog is first placed under anesthesia, and a tracheal tube is put in to keep the airways clear of water. Sedation is essential to manage the animal’s stress and pain, and your pet will be screened first to ensure it is safe. Don't be talked into an anesthesia-free procedure – cleaning under the gum line will not be possible, and your pet will be frightened and possibly hurt.
Once the dog is fully sedated, a complete oral exam will be performed. Each tooth will be checked for disease, fractures, cavities, and any signs of looseness. The vet will also check the dog’s general oral health, looking for sores, growths, abscesses, or obstructions.
The vet may elect to take X-rays to properly assess the health of the jaw bones, identify dead teeth, and assess any growths or cysts.
Where necessary, extractions will be undertaken.
Any plaque and tartar found above and below the gum line will be removed by a process called scaling after which the teeth will be polished to remove any fine scratches that would otherwise trap bacteria.
Once the cleaning is complete, your pet will need to stay at the clinic for observation until the anesthetic wears off sufficiently. He may still be a little dopey and disinterested in food that evening. If extractions were undertaken or any issues were uncovered, you may be required to administer medication.
If your pet starts vomiting, acts strangely, or otherwise appears unwell or in pain, contact the clinic immediately.
Preventing Disease
You can do several things at home to prevent dental disease. You can brush your dog's teeth regularly like you brush your own. But don't use toothpaste designed for humans. It contains ingredients harmful to dogs, such as artificial sweeteners, salt, and fluoride. Your vet clinic or pet store will have special kinds of toothpaste that are safe to swallow and flavored to appeal to your pet. They will also stock special toothbrushes, including soft, flexible finger-tip brushes that your dog may even come to enjoy.
Some dog foods are specifically designed to prevent the buildup of plaque and tartar. Additionally, pet stores will stock chews designed to clean dogs’ teeth and treat bad breath. It’s always best to look for ones that carry the approval of the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC). Antlers, bones, and synthetic products are often too hard and could fracture your pet's teeth.
Our canine companions look to us to ensure they are sheltered, fed, and kept in optimal health. Good dental home care and annual teeth cleanings at the clinic will ensure that your pet’s oral health is the best it can be.