{"id":5135,"date":"2019-11-14T16:34:20","date_gmt":"2019-11-14T16:34:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/tails.com\/blog\/?p=5135"},"modified":"2023-05-25T15:24:00","modified_gmt":"2023-05-25T14:24:00","slug":"your-dogs-dental-health","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/tails.com\/blog\/your-dogs-dental-health\/","title":{"rendered":"Your dog\u2019s dental health"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Dental disease is the most common problem vets diagnose in dogs over the age of three. Because our furry friends explore the world with their mouths, your dog’s dental health is important – that means keeping their teeth and gums in tip top shape.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dogs are just as vulnerable to dental problems as we are. Which is why their mouths need the same amount of care and attention as we give our own. Since our dogs can\u2019t look after their teeth themselves, it\u2019s up to us to keep our pup\u2019s teeth and gums healthy.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to look after your dog\u2019s teeth<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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Daily brushing is the best way to prevent dental problems in dogs. Without brushing, plaque and tartar will build up on the surface of the teeth. This can cause inflammation of the gums; painful cavities and their teeth can become loose and fall out. At a minimum, brushing your dog\u2019s teeth every day should be adequate to keep the dog bad breath and gum disease at bay. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Alongside brushing, there are additional ways to help keep your dog\u2019s teeth clean and healthy: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Kibble in general is a natural abrasive due to its texture and can help towards maintaining good dental health. This is something worth considering when you\u2019re considering whether to feed dry or wet food.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Feeding a daily dental chew can also help reduce plaque. If you decide to use dental chews, make sure you buy the right size for your dog to maintain a health, balanced diet. And be sure to reduce your dog\u2019s normal food intake so they don\u2019t gain weight.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There are enzymatic products on the market that you add to your dog\u2019s water bowl that claim to fight bad breath and plaque build-up. Knowing what will work for your dog can be a challenge, so it\u2019s always best to speak with your vet and get recommendations.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

These are all great options to use alongside a daily brushing routine. But if you don\u2019t brush your dog\u2019s teeth regularly, it\u2019s more likely they\u2019ll need a procedure under anaesthetic at the vets. Which could mean anything from a thorough scale and polish, to multiple tooth extractions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to brush your dog\u2019s teeth <\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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To clean your dog\u2019s teeth, you\u2019ll need a toothbrush and toothpaste that\u2019s made for our canine friends. Never use human toothpaste as it contains fluoride, which is poisonous to dogs. As with any new experience, take it slowly and reward your dog when they\u2019re calm and relaxed.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n