Bad breath is exasperating in dogs, but it can also be a sign of an underlying dental disease. Preventing this type of disease is crucial to your dog’s health, and professional dental cleaning is recommended.
Here’s what you need to know.
Why Do it?
Periodontal disease is among the most common issues pets face, and 80% of dogs will experience some form of it by the time they’re three years old. This disease can spread to the gums, jaw, and ligaments, and even enter the bloodstream, potentially causing very serious diseases like heart failure.
The Procedure
Regular vet check ups will help your vet determine the extent of tartar buildup. If your pup suddenly experiences mouth pain, a vet will be able to diagnose the problem with a few tests. They will then be able to estimate the cost of a full dental cleaning procedure.
On the day where the cleaning will be done, you will not feed your dog after a certain time and make sure your pup has taken any prescription medications. Your dog will be put under anesthesia and an ultrasonic scaler will be used to clean your dog’s teeth of debris, plaque, and tartar. After this is done, your dog’s teeth will be polished and treated with fluoride.
Is It Safe?
Yes! Professional dental cleanings are 100% safe for a dog, and are even healthy for them. Talk to your vet about your options!
Feature Image Source: Pixabay