How to Get Rid of Doggie Breath
Tips to Care for Your Dog's Teeth at Home to Prevent Disease
When was the last time you took a peek at your dog's teeth? If it has been a while try it now. Flip the upper lip up to reveal your dog's upper and lower molars (back teeth). Do you see white, shiny teeth or are they yellow to brown? If the teeth have a small amount of yellow to brown stain on them, it may be plaque and most likely the pet just has gingivitis. If there is a dark yellow to brown, hard substance on the teeth, it could be calculus which indicates a more advanced condition called Periodontal Disease.
Where does Bad Breath Come From?
Bacteria harbor in plaque and calculus and release odors from the mouth we affectionately call "doggie breath." These same bacteria also pose a heath threat to dogs if left to multiply and migrate. Studies show in people and pets that the same bacteria that cause dental infections have also been found on the heart valves and other organs and can set up infection there too.
Visit Your Pet Dentist (Veterinarian) Annually
While you are in the mouth, also check to see if the pet has any broken or missing teeth, abscesses, pus or anything else abnormal looking. Noting the condition of your pet's mouth may help save teeth and perhaps even add years to your pet's life if treated early. Next, it is important to visit your veterinarian at least once a year to have him do a more thorough examination and perhaps do a dental cleaning while the pet is under anesthesia. Most veterinarians offer a number of options for treating damaged teeth. They will know what they are once they do an oral exam.
Home Dental Care Options
Before or after your dog needs to go to the doggie dentist to be treated for damaged or lost teeth, consider the old anecdote, "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." Another words, save your pet's health (and your pocketbook) some trouble later by preventing dental infections now. Know what is best for you and your pet for home dental care and put a plan in place. A side benefit of routine, home dental care also will stop or reduce your dog's bad breath.
- Brush Your Dog's Teeth Daily. Ask a veterinary professional to do a demonstration for you. Brushing is the gold standard to preventing plaque buildup. Start early during puppyhood to form a good habit.
- Give daily dental treats. There are number of them available in grocery and pet stores. Dentabone (TM) and Greenies (TM) are popular and beneficial.
- Find a home care product that is best for you and your dog. Veterinarians carry products that are safe and effective for dogs and cats. A common product line from Virbac Animal Health features rinses, pet toothpaste and brushes and C.E.T (TM) treats. There are other over the counter products too that are beneficial.
- Feed a dental diet. Some products include ingredients to freshen breath and remove plaque. Veterinarians carry Prescription Diet (R) t/d (R) that mechanically remove plaque and calculus as the pet chews. It can be used as a daily diet or as a treat. Iams and Eukanuba also manufacture diets with dental ingredients that ar beneficial.
- New Vaccine for Periodontal Disease - Ask your vet if your dog would benefit from this. The manufacturer, Pfizer Animal Health, claims that it targets three of the most common types of bacteria that are found in a dog's mouth with periodontal disease. It can be used as a preventative.
No matter what you decide to use, all of the above options will benefit your dog in the long run and keep the air you are breathing fresh too.
References:
American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA, Care for Animals "Pets at Risk: Bad Breath isn't Funny Anymore."
Dogs Will Smile with Fresh Breath
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