Bad breath, red, swollen, or bleeding gums can all be the result of tartar buildup on your dog’s teeth. Just like humans, this tartar can not only harm our dog’s teeth and gums, but the bacteria within it can be circulated throughout the bloodstream causing infection, heart or kidney problems among other health risks.
Within just a few hours of eating, plaque begins to form on a dog’s teeth and shortly after, it begins to harden. As this plaque continues to gather and mineralize, it turns into tartar. Tartar is where bacteria are harbored, grow and multiply, causing the gums to first become inflamed and then to recede away from the teeth. This recession of the gums away from the teeth eventually leads to sensitivity, pain and tooth loss.
Your veterinarian can advise you if your dog already has tartar buildup and whether he needs a professional cleaning. However, preventing tartar buildup on your furry baby’s teeth is a must for his good health and can be easily accomplished.
Brushing your dog’s teeth regularly is the best way to prevent buildup, removing plaque as it forms, ideally each day. Always use a toothpaste made specially for dogs along with a soft brush as human toothpaste can upset his stomach. Remember when brushing to pay special attention to the area near the gumline in order to be most effective.
Your furry friend may not initially love brushing and should be slowly introduced to the ritual. Begin by letting him taste a little of the paste by licking it off your hand. Next, gradually introduce the practice by gently brushing just a few teeth.
Chew treats can also help reduce plaque buildup by gently scraping teeth and increasing saliva, which can help rinse bacteria and food particles. Dogs love to chew, so although chewing won’t replace brushing, it can help a lot.
It’s vital to offer your dog chew treats that are safe and effective. Never let your dog chew on bones, ice cubes, nylon toys, or other items which may break his teeth. Choose only the best quality, natural chew to keep your furry friend from damaging teeth, or from being exposed to harmful chemicals or additives.
At Nature Gnaws, our chews are made from 100% grass-fed, free-range, all-natural beef, completely free of hormone injections or genetic modification, and with no added flavors or preservatives – because nothing is too good for our dogs. For more information, please visit www.naturegnaws.com today.
