Dental Health

Unfortunately a recent survey of pets estimated that around 70% of dogs have dental disease from the age of just three years old. Surveys of pet owners found that only 20% of owners recognised that their pet had poor dental health. Many pet owners assume that as long as the dog is eating well there can’t be any dental pain, however if faced with a similar choice – dental pain or starvation – most of us would continue to eat too.

Dental disease is one of the most common diseases in dogs and cats and is often entirely preventable. As with humans we now recognise that daily dental hygiene is the ONLY reliable way of keeping teeth and gums healthy. This is best achieved with a soft bristled toothbrush and pet toothpaste. Whilst pet toothbrushes have been specifically designed with the shape of the pet in mind, human toothbrushes will still do a good job. It is important not to use human toothpaste though as this normal contains Fluoride which if swallowed is toxic. Pet toothpaste comes in a variety of flavours and medicated toothpaste is available from the practice for treatment of gum disease.

Tooth brushing should be done once daily to prevent the build-up of plaque. Failure to remove the plaque on a daily basis results in the accumulation of tartar and harmful bacteria which, over time, leads to gingivitis (gum disease) and periodontal disease (damage to the support structures of the tooth), and ultimately to tooth infection and loss of the tooth. Once the periodontal structures are sufficiently damaged it is necessary to remove the tooth to prevent further pain and risk of infection. Bacteria in the mouth have a hidden damaging effect as they are recognised in contributing to disease of internal organs such and the liver, kidney and heart.

It is important to start tooth brushing early in the dog’s life and to make it a positive experience. Our nursing team are happy to examine your puppy’s teeth and carry out tooth brushing demonstrations to help get you started. Excluding accidents, if the dog’s teeth are well looked after they should last a lifetime.

Chewing on inappropriately hard substances (such as bone, wood, metal, hard plastic, horn or antler) can lead to tooth fracture. If the tooth root is exposed by the fracture the tooth will need to be extracted or have a root canal surgery to make the tooth safe again. Please also be aware that the felt covering on tennis balls can be very abrasive and wear down teeth if the dog gets into a habit of chewing them.