Dental care for dogs is very important. Just as you go twice a year to the dentist, your dog should be visiting his or her vet to get their teeth cleaned. The reason that you want to make sure that your dog is getting proper care for their teeth is because they also run the risk of getting periodontal disease, which is also known as gum disease.
Dogs can get periodontal disease in the same way as humans can get it; too much plaque buildup on the gums causes gingivitis. A clue that gingivitis is present is that the gums are reddening and hardening. Sometimes it’s difficult to tell if the dog’s gums are getting redder, depending on the breed. If you suspect that your dog has the onset of this, we recommend making an appointment with your veterinarian. After a while, bacteria starts forming in these areas and causes a space where more bacteria can grow. At this point, the dog may have periodontal disease.
Your dog’s veterinarian can properly diagnose the stage of the periodontal disease, and if it has gotten to the point of irreversibility. However, if it hasn’t reached that point yet, your veterinarian can advise you on some tips to help reverse it. Such as regular teeth cleaning for your dog, and also watching the dog’s diet. There are special dog bones and treats that are made to help clean your dog’s teeth. Additionally, there are dog chew toys that are designed specifically to clean your dog’s teeth. Talk to your vet today if you suspect that your dog may have periodontal disease.