5 Surprising Facts About Tartar on Dogs' Teeth

Tartar on Dogs' Teeth: An Urgent Issue You Can't Ignore

Did you know that 85% of dogs over the age of 3 suffer from periodontal disease, primarily caused by tartar buildup? Tartar is a hardened plaque that forms on your dog's teeth when bacteria interact with food particles and saliva. It can lead to a range of dental problems, including inflammation, bleeding gums, and tooth loss if left untreated.

Why is Tartar So Harmful?

Tartar is more than just an unsightly cosmetic issue. It poses significant risks to your dog's overall health:

• Gum disease: Tartar buildup irritates the gums, causing inflammation and bleeding. Advanced gum disease can lead to severe pain, tooth loss, and bone damage.
• Oral infections: Tartar harbors bacteria that can spread to other parts of the body, leading to infections in the heart, kidneys, and lungs.
• Pain and discomfort: Tartar buildup can cause pain and discomfort while eating and chewing.
• Bad breath: The bacteria in tartar produce unpleasant odors, resulting in chronic bad breath.

Signs and Symptoms

Pay attention to the following signs that may indicate tartar buildup on your dog's teeth:

• Brown or yellow teeth: Discoloration of teeth is a common indicator of tartar.
• Red or bleeding gums: Inflammation and bleeding gums are a telltale sign of periodontal disease.
• Bad breath: Persistent bad breath can be a symptom of tartar buildup and gum disease.
• Difficulty chewing: Painful gums or loose teeth can make chewing difficult for your dog.
• Loose teeth: Advanced tartar buildup can weaken the teeth's structure, leading to loose teeth.

How to Prevent Tartar Buildup

Prevention is key when it comes to tartar control. Implement these measures to keep your dog's teeth clean and healthy:

• Regular brushing: Brush your dog's teeth daily with a toothbrush and dog-specific toothpaste to remove plaque and prevent tartar formation.
• Dental chews: Dental chews designed to clean teeth can help remove plaque and tartar while providing mental enrichment.
• Healthy diet: Opt for a nutrient-rich diet that promotes dental health and minimizes tartar buildup.
• Regular vet checkups: Schedule regular dental checkups with your veterinarian to assess your dog's oral health and remove stubborn tartar.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many dog owners unknowingly contribute to tartar buildup on their pets' teeth. Avoid these common mistakes:

• Using human toothpaste: Human toothpaste contains ingredients that can be harmful to dogs, such as fluoride and sodium lauryl sulfate.
• Ignoring dental chews: Dental chews are not mere treats but essential tools for maintaining dental health.
• Skipping vet checkups: Regular vet checkups are crucial for early detection and treatment of dental problems.

Treatment Options

If tartar has already formed, it's important to address it promptly to prevent further damage. Treatment options include:

• Scaling: A dental procedure performed by a veterinarian to remove tartar from below the gum line using specialized instruments.
• Polishing: Once the tartar is removed, the teeth are polished to smooth any rough surfaces and prevent future plaque buildup.
• Fluoride treatment: Fluoride applications strengthen tooth enamel and inhibit plaque formation.
• Antibiotics: In cases of severe infections, antibiotics may be prescribed to treat underlying bacterial issues.

Tartar Control: A Collaborative Effort

Maintaining your dog's dental health is a joint responsibility between you and your veterinarian. By implementing preventive measures, seeking professional care when necessary, and addressing tartar buildup promptly, you can keep your dog's smile bright and healthy for years to come.