Doggy Bad Breath Should Not Be Ignored
Would you be willing to brush your dog’s teeth every day? Like their human counterparts, dogs can be plagued with the perils of tooth decay and gum disease. If your pooch’s breath makes you cringe, it’s time to talk to your veterinarian about a dental check-up.
There are four stages of periodontal disease (a bacterial infection of the mouth), according to Banfield Pet Hospital and Banfield.com. They are:
- Plaque and mildly inflamed gums
- Gingivitis (gum disease)
- Mild periodontitis
- Severe periodontitis
While it might not be high on some pet owners’ list of priorities, doggy dental care is an important part of your dog’s overall health and well-being. Early detection and prevention are the best ways to spare Fido long-term health consequences.
Stinky breath, red or swollen gums, yellow or brown teeth, loose and/or missing teeth and the seeming loss of appetitie can all be symptoms indicative of tooth and gum disease.
“According to data found by Banfield’s Applied Research and Knowledge (BARK) Team, pets with periodontal disease are more likely to be diagnosed with heart disease as well as other forms of bodily organ damage,” states the online article titled Canine Dental Disease at http://www.banfield.com/pet-health-resources/preventive-care/dental/canine-dental-disease. “Periodontal disease is shown to have a relationship with heart disease, because bacteria from the mouth constantly enters the blood stream and adheres to the arteries surrounding the heart.”
Small dog breeds, such as Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Dachshunds and Toy Poodles, are more prone to developing periodontal disease than larger breeds, the BARK data states.
Routinely brushing your pooch’s teeth – with a dog-approved tooth paste and tooth brush — is a good way to prevent plaque and its build-up. Regular professional dental cleanings by your veterinarian, certain dog chews and some dog foods are all ways to maintain your pooch’s pearly whites. Ask your veterinarian about the frequency of teeth cleanings, the best dog chews and foods on the market to address canine dental health.