If your dog has a regular tooth care regime, then you are on track to scoring an A+ when it comes to your pet’s dental health. Excellent oral health can lead to longer lives in dogs and will save them from preventable pain and discomfort. When you examine your dog’s mouth, look for these signs that indicate strong teeth and gums.
Healthy Teeth
Dog teeth are typically white during puppyhood, and darken as dogs get older. Puppies start out with 28 baby teeth that fall out around six months, and are replaced with a total of 42 adult teeth. Healthy teeth are not chipped or cracked, and do not show signs of deterioration. Brown or yellow film by your dog’s gum line or visible deterioration are signs of poor dental health, and should be addressed before the buildup worsens.
Healthy Gums
Healthy dog gums should be firm, and can range in color from pink to black. Some dog gums are spotted, which is also normal. Healthy gums are never swollen or discolored. Puffy red or white sections on the gums are signs of periodontal disease.
Healthy Breath Odor
Dog breath isn’t known for being the freshest thing you’ll ever smell. All dogs have some amount of odor to their breath, so it’s normal to smell your pet’s breath when it yawns or breathes on you. Healthy dogs, however, won’t clear out a room with their stinky breath. If your pet’s breath changes or worsens, then it could be a sign of dental issues.
Healthy Tongues
Canine tongues vary in color from pink to blue-black to speckled. You will not find cysts or lumps on or under healthy dog tongues. If your dog’s tongue fades, changes color, or has ulcerations, it could be a sign of a larger problem such as lack of oxygen that is not likely due to dental health.
Healthy Dental Health Behaviors
Dogs with healthy teeth and gums will take part in normal activities that involve chewing without hesitation or sensitivity. Mealtime and eating will not be an issue for them, and they’ll seek out opportunities to chew on snacks and toys like Dura Chew for dogs and TireBiter Flyer regularly. Dogs who struggle with eating, chew on one side of the mouth, show difficulty picking up food, or have noticeable change in chewing and eating behaviors may have oral health issues.
5 Easy Ways to Improve Your Dog's Dental Health
Unless your dog has a seriously bad case of doggie breath, their dental health needs may fly under your radar. However, poor oral hygiene can lead to both tooth loss and periodontal disease in dogs, which in turn may also affect their livers, hearts, and kidneys if the bacteria spreads through the bloodstream.
Here are five simple ways you can help keep their chompers healthy and strong.
1. Start a dental routine
Just like humans, dogs benefit greatly from brushing their teeth. All dogs develop tartar and plaque, which will lead to more serious tooth issues if left alone. Daily tooth brushing is safe and recommended for dogs, but if a daily routine is not feasible, brushing your dog’s teeth at least once per week will yield satisfactory results. Choose a dog toothbrush that is comfortable and safe for your pet, and make sure to use toothpaste and rinses specifically formulated for dogs. When brushing your dog’s teeth, check for debris caught in the gums and signs of tooth decay.
2. Set up regular dental exams
Cleaning your dog’s teeth will help control plaque and tartar, but regular brushing won’t get everything. Veterinarians recommend that dogs receive an oral exam and professional cleaning once per year. Dental cleanings by vets provide a deeper cleaning of bacteria that builds up below the gum line. In order to do a thorough cleaning, vets must anesthetize the dog during the procedure. Some pet owners are squeamish when they hear that anesthesia will be administered, though it is a regular procedure. Talk to your vet about why dental cleanings are important for you dog and about the process.
3. Get your dog chewing
Chewing is a natural behavior in dogs - one that can also benefit their oral hygiene. Chew toys and ropes, bones, rawhide, and chews provide friction along the gumline and act as natural flossers. Provide your dog with chew toys like Booda Bone that are an appropriate size and shape, and let them start chomping their way to healthier teeth. Be sure to replace chew materials when they are worn, and provide durable toys and bones to aggressive chewers. If your dog has sensitive teeth, try latex toys and other softer chewing materials.
4. Monitor your dog’s diet
Diet can factor into overall dental health in a variety of ways. Make sure to feed your pets nutritionally balanced dog food. If tooth health is an issue, try using specially formulated dry foods that don’t crumble as easily to wear away plaque and tartar with chewing. Other dog foods such as Hill's Prescription Diet Dental Care or Royal Canin Veterinary Dental Dog Food inhibit bacteria growth and the formation of plaque. Talk to your vet before making a major change to your dog’s diet, and make sure to choose dental health food that has the Veterinary Oral Health Care (VOHC) seal. Avoid feeding your pooch table food, especially scraps that are high in carbs and sugars. And since dogs tend to eat pretty much anything, make sure your pets do not have access to trash, yard debris, or anything else they shouldn’t be munching on.
5. Try dental dog treats
Like chew toys, treats designed to promote oral health through the mechanical action of chewing help reduce plaque and tartar. Look for treats that have the VOHC seal as they have been tested and proven to reduce plaque and tartar. Dental dog treats come in a variety of sizes, shapes, textures, and flavors, and you can find all-natural options that do not have added colors or flavors. Though these treats are good for dogs’ teeth, they should still be considered snack foods and not be eaten in abundance.
Follow these five tips, and your dog will be on their way to having a very healthy mouth. Your pet will be thanking you each time they flash you that canine smile!
How do I know if my dog has healthy gums?
There are several significant signs you may look for to identify if your dog has healthy gums. The first thing to look for is a healthy pink color in your dog's gums. Pale or white gums may indicate anemia or poor circulation, while bright red gums could suggest inflammation or infection. Additionally, healthy gums should appear moist and shiny rather than dry or sticky. To determine the capillary refill time, gently push your finger on your dog's gums and then release it. Healthy gums will quickly return to their normal pink color within two seconds, indicating good blood flow. Watch out for any signs of swelling, bleeding, or discharge around the gum line, as these could be signs of gum disease or oral infection. Healthy gums should also be firm and tightly adhered to the teeth without any loose or receding tissue. Finally, pay attention to your dog's breath. While not directly related to gum health, persistent foul breath can be a sign of dental problems or infection.
What do healthy dog teeth and gums look like?
Healthy dog teeth and gums exhibit several key characteristics. Starting with the teeth, they should be clean, free of tartar buildup, and appear white or slightly off-white in color. Healthy teeth should be aligned without any obvious cracks, chips, or fractures. Similar to human gums in color and appearance, the gums should be pink and glossy. They should firmly hug the teeth without any noticeable swelling or redness. Additionally, healthy gums should not bleed or show any signs of discharge. Upon gently pressing a finger against the gums, they should quickly turn back to their normal pink color within two seconds, indicating good blood flow. Bad breath should not be present, as the persistent foul odor can indicate dental problems or infection. It's also worth noting that healthy dog teeth and gums are often accompanied by good overall oral hygiene, including the absence of plaque, healthy saliva production, and no signs of discomfort or pain during eating or chewing.
How do I know if my dog's teeth are OK?
To determine if your dog's teeth are in good condition, there are a few indicators you can look out for. Start by observing your dog's eating habits. Healthy teeth allow dogs to chew their food comfortably and without any signs of pain or difficulty. If your dog suddenly starts avoiding certain types of food or shows reluctance while eating, it could be an indication of dental issues. The state of your dog's teeth is an additional factor to take into account. Healthy teeth should be relatively clean, and free of noticeable plaque or tartar buildup. They should also be intact, without any visible cracks, fractures, or excessive wear. Furthermore, bad breath can be an indicator of dental problems. While some degree of doggy breath is normal, persistent and extremely foul odor may signify oral issues, such as gum disease or tooth decay.
What are five common signs of dental problems in dogs?
Dog owners need to be aware of a few typical symptoms of dental issues in canines. First and foremost, bad breath, also known as halitosis, is often an early indicator of dental issues. Even while some canine breath is common, a persistent and exceptionally bad stench may indicate gum disease, tooth decay, or an infection. Another common sign is difficulty or reluctance while eating. If your dog starts showing aversion to certain types of food, drops food from the mouth, or exhibits discomfort while chewing, it may indicate dental pain or discomfort. Furthermore, observable tartar growth on the teeth is a glaring sign of dental issues. Tartar appears as a yellow or brownish coating on the teeth and is formed by the accumulation of plaque. Swollen or red gums, often accompanied by bleeding, are also common signs of gum disease. Healthy gums should have a pink color and firmly hug the teeth, while inflamed gums can be an indication of periodontal disease. Lastly, loose or missing teeth are obvious signs of dental problems.
How can I clean my dog's teeth naturally?
Natural tooth cleaning for your dog might be an advantageous addition to their oral hygiene regimen. One natural approach is to introduce dental chews or dental toys specifically designed to promote oral health. As your dog chews on these items, the rough surfaces frequently assist in eliminating tartar and plaque. Another option is to incorporate raw bones into your dog's diet. Raw bones, such as raw beef bones or raw chicken wings, can help naturally scrape away plaque and tartar while providing mental and physical stimulation. Additionally, there are dog-friendly toothbrushes and toothpaste available that use natural ingredients. Brush your dog's teeth gently and in a circular motion using a toothbrush with soft bristles and toothpaste made specifically for canines. As your dog grows more accustomed to the brushing, start off slowly and progressively lengthen the sessions. Finally, consider adding dental-friendly foods to your dog's diet, such as crunchy vegetables like carrots or apple slices, which can help clean their teeth as they chew.
This information is for informational purposes only and is not meant as a substitute for the professional advice of, or diagnosis or treatment by,your veterinarian. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian or other qualified professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard or delay seeking professional advice due to what you may have read on our website.
