Saturday, October 1, 2011

Canine Dental Care

By Victor Hood


Many pet owners are not aware that dental care is equally essential for dogs as it is for people. Just like in people, dogs' teeth can gather plaque after eating. When plaque builds up and hardens it becomes a coarse brown substance called tartar. As tartar accumulates it can work its way under the gums and cause painful infections and gum disease. This is true with human beings, and definitely the same with animals, dogs included. You brush your teeth every day, probably three times. What does your dog do?

Dog Tooth Brushing Tips

While humans brush thrice daily, dogs only need have their teeth brushed twice a week, according to most veterinarians in the know. Most pet supply stores carry specially designed toothbrushes and toothpaste just for dogs. Take note of this, though - a dog's sense of smell and taste is more advanced than those of a human, so the fresh, flavorful zest found in mint toothpaste will taste abhorrent to your dog. Try brushing Rover's teeth with Crest just once and it will likely be the last time he lets you anywhere near him with a toothbrush. Use the specially designed doggie toothpaste.

Dental Chew

Let's face it - brushing your dog's teeth is not really the most pleasant task on earth. But for those who feel this way, you'll need to bone up on your little buddy's bicuspids in some other manner. Dogs have a natural tendency to chew, and this could be the solution to your dental care problems. Dog biscuits break into small chunks when chewed and rub against the teeth, providing a cleaning service. There's no substitute for brushing your dog's teeth, but if you can't do that, make sure he gets some sort of crunchy dog biscuit on a regular basis.

Canine Mouth Diseases

A dog that does not get his teeth brushed regularly or get access to crunchy, chewy doggie treats may find himself in serious danger of mouth disease. Consider yourself lucky in this case if your dog merely develops a case of gingivitis (in layman's terms - gum inflammation, a very common gum disease) but in some cases your dog may be infected by bacteria that could spread to his bloodstream and vital organs. It is your sole responsibility and nobody else's to properly care for doggie's teeth.

Doggie Dentistry

Dental services are available for dogs, just like they are for people. These dentists can specialize in capping, filling and even extracting a dog's teeth. The best course of action, however, is to avoid the need for such services by properly caring for your dog's teeth. If you can avoid unnecessary pain and discomfort for your furry friend, you should do so. Preventative doggie dental care can save you money as well. Doggie dental procedures can be quite costly.




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