Preventing secondary issues from dental disease in dogs

While we as humans tend to be very careful about our own dental health and hygiene, it is all too common that the same attention is not given to the dental care of our beloved dogs. Establishing a preventative dental care routine for your canine companion can be challenging but is crucial to their overall well-being. Regular brushing, professional cleaning, and providing appropriate chew toys can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup, the main culprits behind dental disease.

Dental disease arises when plaque, a sticky film made up of bacteria and saliva, begins to coat the teeth. Over time, this plaque hardens into tartar, firmly bonding to the tooth's surface and accelerating tooth decay. If left untreated, tartar can penetrate beneath the gum line, causing inflammation and damage to the soft tissues and jawbone. This damage can allow harmful oral bacteria to enter the bloodstream, potentially leading to infections in other organs and systems.

It is therefore essential for dog owners to include regular dental health checks in their pet care routine, preferably with a veterinary professional. Early detection and treatment can prevent the progression of oral disease and minimise the risk of systemic complications, such as heart, kidney, or digestive disorders.

How dental disease arises in the first place

The process starts with bacterial plaque formation on the teeth. The saliva combines with bacteria in the dog's mouth to create a sticky coating that adheres to the tooth enamel. This plaque contains bacteria that produce toxins damaging the teeth and gums. Eventually, plaque mineralises to become tartar, which is harder to remove and accelerates oral decay. Without intervention, tartar spreads below the gum line, affecting deeper tissues and the jawbone, allowing bacteria to spread throughout the body.

Symptoms of dental disease in dogs

One of the earliest signs of dental disease is persistent bad breath, often accompanied by excess saliva. You might also notice your dog shows discomfort while eating, drooling, pawing at the mouth, or displaying behavioural changes due to oral pain. If you observe these signs, it is vital to consult your vet promptly to receive an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.

Treating and preventing secondary complications

Professional veterinary dental care includes thorough cleaning under anaesthesia, dental x-rays to detect hidden problems, and treatments such as extractions if necessary. Antibiotics may be prescribed to manage infections caused by oral bacteria that have entered the bloodstream. Early intervention is key to preventing further systemic issues such as heart or kidney disease.

At home, consistent toothbrushing with dog-specific toothpaste remains the cornerstone of dental health. If brushing is not possible, medicated dental chews and oral rinses can help minimise plaque accumulation. Additionally, specialist dental diets can also reduce tartar build-up. Regular veterinary dental check-ups provide an opportunity for your vet to assess your dog's oral health comprehensively and intervene before issues escalate.

Responsible pet ownership and dental health

Caring for your dog’s teeth is part of responsible pet ownership. By committing to regular at-home care and veterinary visits, you enhance your dog’s quality of life and longevity. Remember, dental disease is not just an oral problem; its effects can ripple through your dog’s entire body. Prevention is far preferable to treating complications later.

For owners seeking to bring a new dog home, it is advisable to find a reputable breeder or adopt from a responsible rescue. Early dental health education and care routines should begin from puppyhood to reduce the risk of dental disease developing later.

Key takeaways to protect your dog’s dental health

• Start a toothbrushing routine early, using canine toothpaste and appropriate brushes.
• Offer safe chew toys to help reduce plaque.
• Use veterinary-recommended dental diets and oral health products.
• Schedule regular veterinary dental check-ups including professional cleanings and x-rays where recommended.
• Recognise symptoms of dental disease early, such as bad breath or reluctance to eat.
• Seek veterinary advice promptly to avoid systemic complications.

Frequently Asked Question

Can dental disease cause issues beyond the mouth in dogs?

Quick Answer: Yes, dental disease can lead to bacteria entering the bloodstream, causing problems with the heart, kidneys, and other organs.

Dental disease doesn’t only affect a dog’s mouth; the bacteria involved can travel via the bloodstream and lead to secondary health problems such as infections in the heart (endocarditis), kidney disease, digestive issues, and more. Preventing and treating dental disease promptly is essential to safeguarding your dog’s overall health and longevity.