What if My Dog Never Had His Teeth Cleaned?

If a dog has never had his teeth cleaned, it's likely that plaque and tartar have built up on the teeth surfaces, especially near the gum line, leading to dental health issues. Signs of dental problems in dogs include bad breath, difficulty eating, drooling, and visible tartar build-up. Poor dental hygiene in dogs can result in periodontal disease, which is an infection of the tissues surrounding the teeth. This condition is painful and can lead to tooth loss, bad breath, and can significantly affect the dog's overall health. Bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream through diseased gums, potentially damaging vital organs like the heart, liver, and kidneys.

Regular dental check-ups are crucial because, without professional cleaning and proper home care, these issues can become severe, impacting not only the dog's oral health but its general well-being too.

Taking Action for Your Dog's Dental Health

For a dog that has never had its teeth cleaned, it's essential to start with a comprehensive dental check-up by a veterinarian. The veterinarian can assess the extent of dental disease and may recommend a professional cleaning under anesthesia to thoroughly clean the teeth, both above and below the gum line, and address any existing dental issues.

Following the professional cleaning, implementing a routine of regular dental care at home is vital. This can include:

•       Brushing the dog's teeth with pet-safe toothpaste

•       Providing dental chews

•       Using specially formulated dental diets or water additives to help reduce plaque and tartar build-up

 Starting these habits, even later in the dog's life, can significantly improve dental health and contribute to a happier, healthier pet.

To learn more on dental health for pets or to schedule professional dental cleaning, visit Pet Hospital of Redlands and Urgent Care at our facility in Redlands, California. Call 909-363-1617 to book an appointment today.