The Importance of Maintaining Your Dog's Oral Hygiene
Most people know that flossing and brushing are important elements of a proper oral hygiene routine. When it comes to dogs, however, dental hygiene routines are almost nonexistent. Many people assume that their dogs will do fine without regular dental hygiene when, in fact, failing to brush could lead to a costly trip to the veterinarian. Here’s a brief look at the importance of maintaining your dog’s oral hygiene:
- Prevent Bad Breath
Though bad breath may not seem like a serious affliction, it can negatively affect your relationship with your dog. If your dog has bad breath, you may not be as inclined to let him lick your face or share tender embraces. Bad breath could even be a symptom of a serious oral ailment, such as a rotting tooth. Luckily, you can fight your dog’s bad breath by conditioning him to accept a tooth-brushing routine.
- Avoid Tooth and Gum Disease
If you don’t brush your teeth for months or even years, you’ll probably end up with gingivitis, periodontitis, or other serious dental diseases. As it turns out, the same is true of dogs. Without proper brushing, plaque will build up on your dog’s teeth and eventually lead to inflammation of the gums or nasty infections along the delicate tissues of the mouth. One way to prevent plaque buildup is to give your dog plenty of chew toys.
- Ensure Good Overall Health
Unfortunately, the negative health effects of a poor oral hygiene routine don’t end at the mouth. If you’re not careful, oral infections could affect your dog’s entire system. For example, the toxins from periodontitis can seep into your dog’s blood stream and damage his internal organs. If your dog has serious dental issues, you should take him to a skilled veterinarian for immediate treatment.
If you’re looking for a skilled team of pet care professionals, contact Heart of Chelsea Animal Hospital. Our staff is happy to provide complete veterinary services, including dental care, checkups, and vaccinations. Call us today at (917) 675-3708 for more information on our services.
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