The Importance of Dental Care for Dogs

As pet owners, it's crucial to understand the importance of maintaining our furry friends' oral health. Unfortunately, tooth decay and gum disease are all too common among our canine companions. Our veterinarians at Seattle are here to guide you on properly cleaning your dog's mouth and providing them with the best dental care possible.

Why Dog Dental Care is Essential

Maintaining your furry friend's oral hygiene is a crucial aspect of their overall well-being. Unfortunately, dogs are prone to developing periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, as early as three years old. This dental issue can severely impact your pet's long-term health if left untreated. 

Research has revealed a correlation between periodontal disease and heart disease in both humans and dogs. This is because bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream, harm heart function, and affect other organs. Moreover, gum erosion, missing or damaged teeth, and oral pain are also significant problems that can arise from poor oral health. 

To keep your dog's mouth healthy, a combination of at-home oral care routines and dental treats can be effective in controlling plaque and tartar buildup. However, the most foolproof way to safeguard your pup's oral health is to take them for an annual dental exam and cleaning at the vet's office. Neglecting your dog's dental hygiene can lead to gingivitis, periodontal disease, bad breath, and, in severe cases, tooth decay, pain, and tooth loss. Don't wait until it's too late - schedule your dog's annual dental appointment today.

Risks Associated with Professional Dog Teeth Cleaning

At our veterinary clinic, your pet's safety is our top priority. That's why prior to any procedure performed under anesthesia, our experienced vets thoroughly assess your furry friend to guarantee their health and well-being.

If necessary, additional diagnostics may be conducted to ensure a stress-free and safe dental exam while under anesthesia.

The Dog Teeth Cleaning Process

To keep your furry friend's teeth healthy and strong, our expert vets at Madison Park Veterinary Hospital located Seattle suggest scheduling a dental appointment for them at least once a year, or even more frequently if they're experiencing persistent dental problems. Our team will carefully examine your dog's oral health during the appointment, looking for signs of tooth decay and periodontal disease.

During the appointment, our team will carefully examine your dog's oral health, looking for signs of tooth decay and periodontal disease, such as:

If you observe any signs of periodontal disease in your furry friend, such as a decline in appetite, irregular chewing habits, excessive drooling, difficulty eating, foul breath, or any other unusual symptoms, it's essential to reach out to your veterinarian promptly. Early intervention can prevent the progression of oral health problems and prevent unnecessary discomfort for your pet. 

Your trusted vet will conduct a comprehensive dental examination of your pet, including a tooth-by-tooth assessment and charting, just like a human dentist would. This will allow us to identify any oral health issues and create a personalized treatment plan. 

During the procedure, your pet will be under a safe and comfortable sedation to ensure a stress-free experience. Using state-of-the-art equipment, we will then thoroughly clean and polish their teeth, including those above and below the gum line. Our team will examine the teeth using probes and x-rays, and to prevent future decay and damage, we will apply a fluoride treatment followed by a dental sealant to combat plaque buildup. 

If your pet is experiencing advanced periodontal disease, our dedicated team will collaborate with you to design a customized treatment plan to restore their oral health and alleviate any discomfort.

Recovery Time After Teeth Cleaning

While every canine is unique, it's common for your furry friend to start feeling better after being under anesthesia within a few hours. However, in some instances, complete recovery may take anywhere from 24 to 48 hours. During this period, your dog may display signs of grogginess and a decreased appetite.  

Cost of Dog Teeth Cleaning

While every canine is unique, it's common for your furry friend to start feeling better after being under anesthesia within a few hours. However, in some instances, complete recovery may take anywhere from 24 to 48 hours. During this period, your dog may display signs of grogginess and a decreased appetite.

How to Clean Your Dog's Teeth

Many pet parents wonder if they should brush their dog's teeth. Our vets believe that starting a regular oral hygiene routine for your pup while their young can help to prevent dental issues from arising as your pet gets older, that includes brushing your dog's teeth.

Here are a few ways to keep your dog's mouth healthy:

• Use a finger brush from your vet, or a child's toothbrush to brush your pet's teeth daily to remove any plaque or debris. It's as simple as brushing your own teeth. If your dog resists cleaning their teeth, try some doggie toothpaste in flavors your pooch will find irresistible. These special dog-friendly kinds of toothpaste can turn a chore into a treat.
• Use a plaque prevention product (your vet can recommend some), which you can apply to your pet's teeth and gums. These products act as a barrier to prevent plaque buildup.
• Offer your pup treats such as dental chews or food designed to help prevent plaque buildup and tartar.
• Take your dog to the vet for a dental exam and cleaning every year, or if your dog shows signs of an oral health problem such as a broken tooth, or discolored teeth.

Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.