It is important to know the signs that your dog needs a dental cleaning. Our Northside Animal Clinic vets will provide you with the signs that your dog may need to come into our Jackson clinic for a dental cleaning.
Do dogs need their teeth cleaned?
A dental cleaning for your dog can include a thorough dental examination, teeth cleaning, and polishing to remove the tartar and periodontal disease-causing plaque. This will need to be done while your dog is under general anesthesia.
Once the dog is sedated, the veterinarians of Northside Animal Clinic will conduct an oral examination of the animal, documenting any irregularities, with the assistance of their veterinary assistants. Bleeding gums and periodontal pockets, which harbor food particles and are susceptible to decay in the absence of appropriate maintenance, will be assessed using a dental probe.
When periodontal disease is advanced, it may not be possible to save the badly affected teeth, which may need to be extracted either during the procedure or at a later time.
Where can I get my dog's teeth cleaned?
A dental cleaning can be done at your vet's office. It is advisable to have your dog's teeth examined annually, although this frequency can vary depending on the individual dog. Ascertain whether your dog requires additional dental cleanings; consult your Northside Animal Clinic veterinarians regarding this matter.
During a dental cleaning service, your pet will be put under anesthesia for your dog's safety and the safety of the staff. The vet will conduct X-rays first to see if there are any underlying issues.
When should I get my dog's teeth cleaned?
An easy way to tell if your dog needs a teeth cleaning is just by looking at their teeth. A dog's teeth will show a buildup of plaque. If you notice some plaque buildup or gingivitis in your dog's mouth, it's probably time for a dental cleaning.
These issues will only get worse if they aren't addressed early on, and they can lead to serious dental issues and sensitivity for your dog.
Signs of dental problems in dogs and that you might need to schedule dog teeth cleaning include:
- Bad breath (Halitosis)
- Discolored or yellowing teeth
- Receding and/or bleeding gums (Gingivitis)
- Drooling (more than average)
- Loose or missing teeth
- Poor appetite
- Sneezing and nasal discharge (from an abscess that breaks into the nasal passages)
What You Can Do At Home
The most effective course of action is to frequently brush your dog's teeth at home. Although more is preferable, you will be in good shape with two to three brushings per week at the latest. As you brush your dog's teeth more frequently, they will become accustomed to the routine and find it easier to do so daily.
If you need to be shown how to brush your pet’s teeth feel free to contact Jackson vets and we will get you started in the right direction.