Dogs, as humans, need more overall health care than just going to the veterinarian every time something is wrong with them. Prevention and good habits are essential in maintaining good health and avoiding various diseases. Whether it is regular check-ups, picking up cleaning routines at home, or both, dog owners have a variety of options available to their hands to keep their loved pets in the best condition possible.
Do Dogs Need Dental Care?
Yes, they do. Just as humans, dogs need dental care to avoid and fix any issue that may develop in their mouth. Similarly to us, they will suffer from cavities and periodontal disease if plaque accumulates on their teeth and is left undisturbed. According to the American Kennel Club, neglecting oral care on your dogs not only can lead to tooth decay and tooth loss but can result in severe infections in other parts of their body.
Additionally, maintaining good oral health in your dog requires regular dental treatment. Believe it or not, dogs benefit greatly from owners brushing their teeth as it avoids plaque buildup. However, you still have to take them for a professional cleaning and check-up once in a while. Many dental diseases that affect dogs happen under the gum line, meaning that veterinarians need to take x-rays to notice them.
What Dental Cleaning Products Can I Use?
Getting your dog used to you brushing their teeth is mostly not an easy task. Fortunately, there are many tools and products at hand that will allow you to brush your pet’s teeth properly and easier. Here are some products and tools that we recommend you try.
Canine Toothpaste
If you are planning on using toothpaste to brush your dog’s teeth, make sure it is toothpaste designed specifically for dogs. Regular toothpaste is toxic for dogs, and given that we have very little control over our dogs swallowing toothpaste or not, it is more than likely that they will end up consuming the toxic product.
Furthermore, toothpaste for dogs tends to have flavors enjoyable for them, making it easier to control your dog during the process. Try a few different ones to see which one your dog likes the best, and you’ll make brushing a fun experience for them.
Water Additives
Water additives are a simple tool that helps kill harmful bacteria in your dog’s mouth while promoting the development of good bacteria, effectively preventing plaque and tartar buildup as well as gum disease, and it even freshens your dog’s breath. It is extremely easy to use, and many of them come without flavor or smell so that your dog won’t be put off by them. Just add the recommended amount to your dog’s water bowl, and you’ll both be good to go.
Dental Treats
There are some special dental treats that help not only remove plaque buildup and freshen your dog’s breath but also create a barrier around a dog’s tooth that prevents bacteria from sticking and building up. They come in many sizes and shapes, so you’ll be able to choose the most appropriate one for your dog.
Professional Dog Dental Cleanings
Professional cleanings are one of the best ways to maintain proper oral health in dogs. The veterinarian in charge removes all plaque and tartar present in a process called scaling while simultaneously searching for indicators of other dental diseases, such as periodontal disease.
Given that dogs don’t understand that the treatment is meant to help them, they tend to panic and move around, making it very difficult and even dangerous for the veterinarian to continue their job. Because of this, veterinarians will always use anesthesia for this kind of treatment. You can be sure that your dog won’t have any lasting effects from the anesthesia aside from some sleepiness that’ll last until the next day.
How Much Does Dog Dental Care Cost?
The cost of professional cleaning for a dog can go anywhere from $300 to $700. Of course, this includes scaling, anesthesia, x-rays, general mouth examination, and polishing. If your pet suffers from periodontal disease, you’ll have to pay around $520 for the treatment.
These numbers will depend highly on where you take the service and the size of your dog. Additionally, pet owners should search for the many pet insurances available if they are looking into regular dental appointments for their dogs.
Give Your Dog the Care They Deserve
Remember to always take your dog for regular check-ups and a professional cleaning to avoid painful and uncomfortable experiences for them. If your pet is in need of medical care, however, contact us at Central Orange County Emergency Animal Hospital, we’ll be ready to help you and your beloved pet at even the earliest hours of the day.
