The Importance of Dental Care for Dogs
Tuesday, January 17, 2023 10:27:30 AM America/Los_Angeles
Dental care is touted by vets as one of the most important pillars of doggie healthcare. After all, our canine companions aren’t able to brush or floss on their own, so it’s up to dog pawrents to take up the task. But how critical is it to your pup’s well-being? Read on to find out more about what dental care entails and if it’s actually really necessary for dogs.
Photo by Lucian Dachman
What Is Dental Care for Dogs?
Dental care for dogs isn’t just a once-a-year appointment at the vet. Comprehensive dental care includes regular cleanings as well as regular brushing at home. Human toothpaste should never be used, as it could contain ingredients that are toxic for dogs. Instead, use pet-safe toothpaste and a brush or dental wipes to keep those chompers sparkly clean! Dental cleanings at the vet are more involved and can require anesthesia if a deep cleaning is needed. While a dog is under, plaque will be removed and their teeth will be inspected to check for cavities or other major dental issues.
So, why is dental care for dogs so important? Preventive care is the single best way to avoid more serious and more painful dental issues such as tooth decay or periodontal disease. Severe dental can even lead to kidney failure, as kidney functioning can be eroded if bacteria enters the digestive system regularly.
Are Dental Cleanings Really Necessary for Dogs?
Yes! Preventive care ensures that your fur baby’s teeth and gums are in tip top shape. Brushing at home is incredibly important, but dental cleanings are also important for your pup’s long-term health. Just think about how dirty human teeth can get even though we brush and floss them twice a day. Considering that we don’t brush our dogs’ teeth nearly as much (and forget about flossing), a professional cleaning is necessary to clear out plaque that poses a threat to your doggo’s well-being.
How Often Should Dogs Get Their Teeth Cleaned?
Part of the reason that regular check-ups are so critical is that vets check your fur baby’s teeth and gums to let you know if a cleaning is in order. If not, vets can dispense invaluable suggestions about the dental care that your dog needs in the meantime as well as give an estimated timeline for when the next cleaning should be.
Is your pooch recovering from a cleaning or an extraction? An indoor dog bathroom like Bark Potty can make going potty infinitely easier while your furry one is still shaking off that anesthesia. Subscribe to a real bark pee pad today to prepare for an upcoming procedure and make sure your pup has everything they need for a smooth recovery!