TIPS FOR KEEPING YOUR DOG’S TEETH HEALTHY

After a meal, food particles, saliva, and bacteria combine to create a sticky, colourless film called plaque, which starts to coat the surface of a dog’s teeth within 24 hours. Without daily dental care, this plaque accumulates and eventually hardens into tartar (also known as calculus). Tartar is a rough deposit that promotes the growth of bacteria, leading to inflammation and other painful oral issues. The build-up of plaque and tartar is the primary cause of dental disease in dogs.

Gingivitis is the inflammation of a dog’s gums caused by the build-up of bacteria in the form of plaque, which can harden into tartar if left untreated. Redness around the gums is an early sign of dental disease (also called periodontal disease). The good news? Gingivitis is reversible with proper dental care!

If dental disease isn’t treated, it can progress to periodontitis. This more advanced stage affects not just the gums but also the bones and roots of the teeth, leading to pain, loose teeth, and even tooth loss. In severe cases, bacteria from the mouth can travel through the bloodstream, potentially impacting vital organs like the heart, kidneys, and liver, causing serious health issues.

By caring for a dog’s teeth early, it’s possible to prevent discomfort and protect overall health.

SIGNS OF DENTAL DISEASE

Dental disease often goes unnoticed by owners, as our dogs continue to eat by hiding signs of pain. One of the earliest indicators of dental issues is bad breath, which is frequently dismissed as “normal” for dogs. However, persistent bad breath may signal undiagnosed dental disease. Signs to look out for in your pet include:

• Persistent bad breath
• Redness, swelling or bleeding from the gums
• Yellow or brown discolouration of the teeth
• Difficulty eating (for example, if you notice your pet is dropping food from the mouth while eating, or is slowing down while eating, this may be a result of oral pain)
• Excess salivation which may contain blood
• Loose teeth

Keeping an eye on your dog's mouth at home dental care can help you spot early warning signs of dental issues. This enables prompt investigation and timely treatment by your local veterinarian, helping to maintain your dog’s oral health and overall well-being.

TREATMENT AND PREVENTION OF DENTAL DISEASE

Once tartar forms on your dog's teeth, it can only be removed through a professional dental clean performed under general anaesthesia by your veterinarian. During this procedure, the vet will thoroughly clean the teeth, removing plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline. For pets with advanced dental disease, additional treatments such as the surgical extraction of diseased teeth may be necessary.

Annual dental cleanings with your veterinarian are typically recommended to address plaque beneath the gumline that at-home care might not fully remove. Unlike humans, dogs can’t simply hold their mouths open for a dental procedure, so general anaesthesia is essential to ensure the comfort and safety of both your pet.

Preventing dental disease involves consistent at-home dental care. Along with regular veterinary check-ups and professional cleanings, you can support your dog’s oral hygiene with tooth brushing, specially formulated dental diets, dental chews like VeggieDent FR3SH, and water additives like Aquadent FR3SH.

TOOTH BRUSHING

Toothbrushing is the most effective way to prevent plaque buildup and maintain your dog’s oral health. Brushing your dog's teeth regularly can help reduce bad breath, minimise tartar, and support overall dental hygiene. However, it's important to use dog-specific toothpaste, as human toothpaste can be toxic to dogs. A toothbrush designed specifically for pets can also make the process easier and more effective.

Toothbrushing requires patience and practice, but making it a positive experience for your dog is key to long-term success. Gradually introducing the process and rewarding your dog can help create a positive association. Here’s a guide to help you get started:

1. Familiarise Your Dog with Mouth Handling
   Start by gently touching your dog’s teeth and gums. You can let your dog lick a treat off your fingers to make the experience enjoyable. If your dog shows signs of fear, discomfort, or aggression, pause and avoid forcing the process to prevent injury.

2. Lift the Upper Lip
   Once your dog is comfortable with touch around their mouth, gently lift their upper lip to expose the teeth. This helps them become familiar with the sensation of having their mouth handled.

3. Introduce Pet-Safe Toothpaste
   Let your dog taste the pet-safe toothpaste by putting a small amount on your fingertip and allowing them to lick it. The flavour is often designed to be palatable for dogs, making it a rewarding experience.

4. Introduce the Toothbrush Gradually
   Place a small amount of the pet-safe toothpaste on the toothbrush and let your dog sniff or lick it. Begin by gently brushing a few teeth at a time, focusing on the outer surfaces where plaque tends to accumulate. Use circular motions and avoid applying too much pressure.

5. Build Up Over Time
   Start with short sessions and gradually work up to brushing more teeth as your dog becomes comfortable. Aim to brush their teeth daily or at least a few times a week for optimal results.

6. Always Reward Afterwards
   After each brushing session, reward your dog with praise, a treat, or playtime to reinforce the positive experience.

Toothbrushing, when combined with other dental care methods like dental chews, specialised diets, and water additives, can help maintain your dog's oral health and keep their breath fresh. If you're unsure about how to get started, your veterinarian can provide guidance and recommend the best tools and products for your dog.

DENTAL DIETS

Your veterinarian may recommend a prescription dental diet for your dog. These diets are specifically formulated to aid in the management of oral health by their mechanical action, which helps to prevent the buildup of plaque and tartar each time the dog eats. When choosing a dental diet, consult with your veterinarian to ensure the diet is appropriate for the specific needs of your pet.

DENTAL CHEWS AND WATER ADDITIVES

There are other easy and effective solutions to help maintain good dental health: dental chews and water additives. Not all dental chews and solutions have the same efficacy, and so it is important to choose one that is recommended by your veterinarian.

Dental Chews

Dental chews are an easy and enjoyable way to support your dog’s dental health. When selecting a chew, look for the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal of approval, as this ensures the product has been scientifically shown to reduce the severity of dental disease with regular use.

VeggieDent FR3SH has been awarded the VOHC Seal of Acceptance to help control plaque and tartar, and offers multiple benefits:

• Plant-Based: Made with plant-based ingredients for a natural solution.

• Tasty Treat: Dogs love the flavour, making it a rewarding chew.

• Z-Shaped: The unique shape helps clean all areas of the teeth.

Water Additives

Water additives are another simple and effective way to promote oral health. AquaDent FR3SH is a veterinary-recommended solution that supports oral hygiene by:

• Reducing Plaque Formation: when added to your dog’s daily drinking water, it helps minimise plaque buildup.

• Controlling Bad Breath: It addresses common causes of bad breath, leaving your dog with fresher breath.

Dental disease is a serious issue that can significantly impact a dog’s quality of life if left untreated. Being aware of the signs of dental disease and taking proactive steps, like using dental chews, water additives, and routine veterinary care, is key to prevention and management.

For more details on Virbac’s range of oral care products, click here.