Gum disease in dogs

Overview

Bad breath, food dropping out of the mouth, drooling...all just part of being a dog, right? Wrong. These may be warning signals that your pet is in need of dental care.

More than 85 percent of domestic animals over the age of 3 suffer from gingivitis, a gum disease caused by inflammation of the gums. Particles of food, saliva and bacteria, commonly known as plaque, can harden into tartar in your dog's mouth in just 48 hours. When plaque and tartar are present, infection can occur.

Some breeds, including boxers and terriers, are prone to proliferating gum disease, in which the gum grows over the teeth and causes infection.  This condition requires intervention to prevent serious dental disease. 

Dental disease can affect the kidneys, heart, and other vital organs in the body.  Proper dental care is essential for a long, healthy life!

Symptoms

• Bad breath
• Excessive drooling
• Fractured teeth
• Tumors in the mouth
• Red, inflamed gums
• Crying out when eating
• Inability or unwillingness to eat hard foods

Prevention

Veterinarians recommend that you check your dog's teeth and gums at least once a week. Look for signs of infection, such as inflamed gums and tartar buildup. The best way to avoid gum disease is by regular brushing with a toothpaste made especially for dogs. Never use human toothpaste. It may contain detergents that can cause an upset stomach if swallowed. Baking soda has sometime been suggested for use. However, besides the problem of taste, baking soda contains a high sodium level. This sodium level may cause health problems in some animals, especially those with a heart condition.

For a few days prior to starting your home dental care program, merely stroke the outside of your pet's cheeks with your fingers. This will accustom your pet to having your hands near his mouth. To get your pet used to brushing, start off with just a little paste on your fingers or some soft gauze. Gently rub it along the outer teeth and gums. When you think your dog's ready, switch to a soft toothbrush, designed for dogs, or a finger toothbrush for smaller mouths. Apply toothpaste to the toothbrush and allow your dog to lick it off. After acceptance is established, gently pull the lips and cheeks up. Begin with short, back-and-forth strokes at the gumline. Brush only a few teeth the first time. Give lots of reassurance and praise during the process. Increase the number of teeth brushed each time until your dog accepts this routine willingly. Remember to use care when attempting to brush your dog's teeth for the first time, as he may object to having you handle his mouth-especially if his gums are sore or his teeth are loose.

More advanced dental care is available by your veterinarian.  Pets can have their teeth cleaned with equipment similar to what is used in humans.  However, our pets are not as well behaved as humans and must be anesthetized for a complete dental cleaning.  Some dogs require cleaning as often to 2-3 times a year and some only require one once a year.  If your dog has advanced dental disease, a dental cleaning should be performed by your veterinarian.  In these cases, home tooth brushing alone will not be enough to remove the build up but should be started after a thorough cleaning.