How does tartar or periodontal disease form in dogs?
When our dogs eat, especially highly processed foods such as kibble, their teeth are attacked by bacteria that enter their mouths and form dental plaque. This plaque is made up of bacteria that create a film on the teeth to which various substances adhere, which over time form tartar (calculus).
Why is it important for your dog to have clean teeth?
Tartar tends to build up between the teeth and gums. It gradually penetrates the root of the tooth and can eventually affect the bone. In addition, the infection can spread to other organs such as the heart.
This means that the vet may have to perform a thorough cleaning and even pull out some teeth under general sedation.
How do I know if the infection is advanced?
The gum affected by the infection becomes inflamed (gingivitis), bleeds and even the root of the tooth may become exposed.
This causes your dog to be in a lot of pain and unable to chew or pick up a toy in his mouth.
How do I know if my dog has tartar?
- Darkened teeth (early signs)
- Bad breath
- Swollen and bleeding gums
- Exposed tooth roots (in the most severe cases)
- Excessive salivation
- Difficulty chewing
- Gums recede
- Mobile teeth
Are there dogs more prone to developing tartar?
Like people, there are some dogs that are more prone to developing tartar:
- Boxers, Bulldogs… dogs with flat snouts (Brachycephalics) since the shape of their jaw means their teeth are very close together and this encourages the accumulation of tartar.
- Small breed dogs (Toy) since it is very common that they do not lose all their baby teeth and this causes the teeth to be even closer together.
How can I prevent it? Recommendations
There are dog toothbrushes and artificial treats on the market that clean their teeth by chewing them.
Why do something as unnatural as brushing a dog's teeth or giving it something made in a laboratory when there are natural alternatives?
Use natural snacks that they can chew on, such as: dehydrated bull nerve, dehydrated pig ears, dehydrated tracheas, raw duck or chicken neck, raw rabbit tail, raw beef knuckles… at least 2 or 3 times a week.
Natural nutrition Barf diet, since it is a diet rich in bones, it keeps their teeth white, healthy and strong.
Avoid general sedation of your dog with easy and natural daily care!
Indidogs, your dog shop and groomer in the Gracia district of Barcelona for everything you need for your dog, cat, rodent, bird... Specialists in natural food with the Barf diet.
