80% of ARISTODOGS have dental problems when they reach middle age. However, the percentage of ARISTO-PARENTS who are aware of their dogs' dental problems is very low, approximately 30%. Today we want to talk to you about this because it is a topic very relevant to the health and well-being of our furry friends, as dogs do almost everything with their mouths. Therefore, it is important to combat the lack of knowledge that exists in this regard to ensure their good health and quality of life.
Let's look at the different dental problems an ARISTODOG can have, from least to most severe:
1. Dental plaque
Dental plaque is defined as the soft, thin film of food debris, saliva, and dead cells that accumulates on teeth. It is the perfect environment for the growth of various bacteria.
Daily brushing of your pet's teeth at home can help remove the constant build-up of plaque. For this, we recommend that you have a dental hygiene kit, such as this one from Trixie. Although in certain breeds, especially small dogs, reaching to brush the molars and premolars is quite difficult. So it is advisable to give them extra help, based on dental sticks or snacks, like the ones you will find in ARISTOSHOP from Greenies.
2. Tartar
Tartar (also called dental calculus) is the hard, stone-like material, creamy yellow to black in color, which is a consequence of the mineralization of dental plaque.
Tartar cannot be removed by brushing. It must be removed with special equipment used by veterinary clinics (and dentists), usually with the dog under general anesthesia. Although there are already hygienic toys, with which the situation can be improved day by day.
3. Gingivitis
Refers to the inflammation of the edge of the gingival tissue, also called gums. Characterized by redness, inflammation, and bleeding. It does not cause tissue destruction and is usually reversible through good oral care and prevention.
The gingival pocket is the narrow space between the inner wall of the gum and the tooth. When gingivitis appears, the bacteria present in these pockets worsen, accumulating in these pockets which release toxins and destroy the gum.
The gum responds to plaque with an aggressive inflammatory response that causes inflammation, bleeding (due to infiltration with new blood vessels), and loss of connective tissue.
More than 80% of pets three years of age or older have gingivitis. It appears more prematurely in small breed dogs and, in general, affects dogs earlier than cats.
4. Periodontal diseases
Are a group of diseases that affect the supporting tissues of the teeth, specifically the gums and jawbones. It begins with the formation of invisible pockets between the teeth and the gums that harbor bacteria. If left untreated, this disease has serious detrimental consequences for the dog.
According to the Federation of Companion Animal Veterinary Associations, periodontal disease is the most common disease in dogs. In fact, most dogs suffer from some degree of periodontal disease by three years of age.
Symptoms of oral disease in dogs are:
– Halitosis, meaning bad breath. Which can be camouflaged with dental water, but is a symptom in itself.
– Dental pain and tooth loss
– Inflamed, swollen gums that may bleed when the dog chews snacks or toys.
– Diseases in other vital organs
If your dog shows any of these symptoms, you should immediately make an appointment with your vet.
The 4 phases of periodontal disease progression are:
1.- Accumulation of plaque and its maturation
2.- Gum inflammation (gingivitis)
3.- Affectation of connective tissue and partial loss of support (periodontitis)
4.- Complete bone loss, teeth must be extracted. With the consequent negative effects on the dog's life, both for eating and for playing, as well as for interacting with its environment.
Many owners may not realize the importance of dental care for their dog's health and well-being. But as ARISTO-PARENTS, our role is important, as dogs cannot brush their teeth as we do.
