Dogs in the wild show fewer symptoms of gum disease because they chew on bones and bark that scrape the surface of the tooth and keep plaque from building up. Unfortunately, domesticated dogs are prone to developing periodontal disease since they eat a diet of soft foods and foods that produce plaque and tartar on the teeth. Even commercial dog foods can produce residue that collects on the dog's teeth, right at the gumline. This plaque irritates the gums and causes inflammation. Once the gums are swollen, they pull slightly away from the tooth's surface, allowing more residue to build in the pocket. When a dog develops gum disease, you can take steps to correct the situation.
Things You'll Need
- Doggy toothpaste and toothbrush
Instructions
Brush your dog's teeth using a doggy toothpaste or plain baking soda. Doggy toothbrushes are available that fit over the tip of your finger. Brush gently at the gumline and praise your dog for being so good. A brushing session should be very quick to prevent stress to your dog.
Clean away the tartar on your dog's teeth using dental tools. Use the sharp, curved canine dental cleaning instrument only when your dog is relaxed. It is imperative that your dog lie very still. Scrape with the sharp edge of the instrument downward on each tooth. To be an effective gum disease treatment, you must slip the tiny sharp edge of the instrument just beneath the gumline where the tarter is. This will not hurt your dog, but it is uncomfortable and the dog may not respond well. If you're uncomfortable doing the cleaning, take your dog to the vet for an oral exam and cleaning, which can be done under sedation.
Follow your vet's advice for more serious cases of gum disease. Your dog may need X-rays and a surgical procedure to stop the damage. Gingivitis is reversible but if it progresses to periodontal disease, the condition becomes much more serious and the damage cannot be reversed.
Be prepared for your dog's gums to bleed slightly and wipe away the blood as you go from tooth to tooth. The tartar is hard and sometimes it sticks stubbornly to the tooth so a little pressure is necessary.