Believe it or not a modern veterinary practice can have up to 40% of its work load as dental procedures of various kinds. Periodontal disease is the most frequent dental condition seen in dogs and cats, and four out of five dogs over the age of three show signs. In-spite of much educational literature Sonic Toothbrush and information given by vets to clients, recent researchers have found that only 5% of the general public are aware of a problem. For those who don’t know periodontal disease affects the structures that support the teeth i.e. the gums, the bone and the ligamental structures that hold it all together.
First signs are red swollen gums, prone to bleeding when touched, plaque build up and bad breath. You may notice a thin brown layer of plaque around your pets teeth.These are the first signs and if unchecked Dental Research Paper the disease progresses to severe gingivitis and ulceration, heavy plaque formation, severe pain, tooth loss, teeth that move and extreme halitosis, quite hard to bare when close to your dog.
To prevent this happening you have to regularly check your pets mouth for signs of a problem and as young as possible start with a daily tooth-brushing routine. This can be problematical, but if you start early Fido will think its just part of growing up.
Here are a few tips:
– Allow your dog to regularly lick toothpaste from your fingers to get him used to the taste.
– Get your dog used to regular mouth he is happy with this introduce a finger of toothpaste and rub up and down a few times.
– Get a toothbrush charged with paste and introduce it to the mouth. Take your time avoiding the front(incisor teeth) which tend to be sensitive. Start with the large canine teeth gently brushing from gum to tip.
– Then start on the back teeth using a circular motion. If he is unhappy stop and have a go another day until he gets used to the idea. It can take several weeks to make it a routine he is happy with.
– Always start with the canines then the molars and finally the incisors. Brush the incisors with the mouth held shut by the muzzle. Be gentle, and above all patient, because you dog hasn’t a clue what your up to!
For ideal results do this daily.