Why does my dog’s breath smell? If your dog is suffering from stinky breath, he may need more than a mouth rinse. According to the American Kennel Club, at least 8 out of 10 dogs suffer from periodontal disease, and stinky dog breath is a common symptom. Bad breath happens for various reasons; tooth decay, plaque and tartar buildup, dehydration, or lack of oral hygiene.
If you want to learn how to clean your dog’s teeth you’ve come to the right place. Pet owners who fail to incorporate oral hygiene risk dental problems like gingivitis (gum inflammation). Today, HICC PET™ discusses simple ways to clean your dog’s teeth and the top dog dental care products.
The Dangers of Plaque and Tartar in Your Dog’s Mouth
So, how does tartar form on your dog’s teeth? Tartar forms when plaque, a film of bacteria, accumulates on the teeth and hardens. Plaque is a sticky, colorless film that appears on the tooth surface daily. It comes from bacteria, saliva, and sticky food particles.
Once enough, plaque builds up along the tooth and gum line; the plaque hardens, and tartar forms. Plaque and tartar cause tooth decay and, eventually, tooth loss. Once the condition worsens, it becomes irreversible. You must seek a dentist to remove tartar from the tooth surface and use preventive measures like brushing to keep tartar away forever.
How to Remove Tartar in Dog Mouth
You cannot remove tartar from brushing. It takes a professional cleaning service to remove tartar from the tooth. The best way to keep your dog tartar-free is through prevention. Brush the teeth regularly to remove plaque quickly and stop tartar formation.
Ways to Prevent Plaque
Just like humans, regular brushing helps prevent plaque formation. Pet oral care supplies like a toothbrush for dogs or pet dental wipes allow owners to remove plaque gently. Adding these supplies to your dog’s teeth care routine maintains pearly white teeth and long-lasting fresh breath. Numerous dog dental care and grooming products simplify the dog care process.
Signs That Your Dog Needs Dental Cleaning
Consult a veterinarian or teeth cleaning service if you notice any of the signs below in your dog:
- Bad breath
- Discolored teeth
- Excessive drooling
- Loss of appetite
- Bleeding from the mouth
- Pawing at the mouth
- Difficulty chewing
- Swelling around the mouth or face
Common Questions About Dog Dental Care
Is dog dental cleaning necessary?
Yes, dog dental cleaning is necessary to maintain good oral health. Regular brushing and professional cleanings can help prevent dental disease and keep your dog’s teeth and gums healthy.
