Tartar in dogs

Tartar in dogs is quite common - according to statistics, 75% of pets may have this problem. Our task is to help the animal in time and prevent the development of complications, because some of them become quite serious.

Let us consider in more detail the main aspects of this pathology, as well as methods for its elimination and prevention.

Mechanism and causes of occurrence

Mineral deposits on teeth are a big problem for pets. In addition, the presence of tartar can provoke other serious complications. Therefore, constant and thorough care of the dog's mouth is extremely important.

Tartar is transformed from ordinary dental plaque, which accumulates over a certain period of time at the base of the tooth, closer to the gum line. It consists of food fragments, exfoliated cells of mucous tissues, proteins of salivary secretions, representatives of various microflora. Over time, plaque hardens, deposits into a mineral sediment, and many bacteria settle on it. Some of them, especially streptococcus, create a favorable environment for the further formation and strengthening of tartar. Lime deposits and microorganisms on them actively produce lactic acid, which disrupts the acid-base balance in the oral cavity. As a result, the mucous membranes of the mouth, gums, and tooth enamel suffer. In the future, this can provoke the development of inflammatory processes, allergic reactions, damage to tooth enamel and periodontium.

The process mostly affects canines and molars. Tartar can appear in any adult dog, but miniature breeds with short muzzles suffer more often.

The main causes of tartar in dogs:

• the presence of permanent dental plaque;
• absence of solid elements in everyday food (bones, cartilage, etc.);
• dental irregularities;
• damage to the enamel structure of all or some teeth;
• disturbances of salt and mineral metabolism in the animal's body.

Tartar develops gradually, eventually affecting surrounding tissues.

Symptoms

The owner of a pet should regularly examine the animal's mouth and teeth in order to promptly identify the symptoms of tartar in a dog. The appearance of dark yellow or grayish-brown deposits at the base of the teeth, redness and swelling of the gums, their increased sensitivity and bleeding should definitely be a warning sign.

If you do not remove tartar from dogs in time, the pathological process will continue to progress. The animal will no longer be able to eat normally, especially solid food. The appetite disappears, the dog loses weight. Tooth loss and increased salivation may be observed.

Tartar in dogs can be found both above the gum line and under the gum. Tartar above the gum is diagnosed faster and is much easier to remove. Under the gum, mineral deposits can remain unnoticed for a long time. And only during the initial inflammatory process, the appearance of voids, "pockets" between the tooth and gum becomes noticeable, the tissues swell, and a rather unpleasant odor from the mouth is felt.

Periodontitis may develop: the animal suffers from excruciating pain in the gums, the teeth first become loose, then begin to fall out. Small inflammatory elements on the mucous membranes and abscesses appear. Mass reproduction of microbes in the oral cavity leads to their entry into the dog's stomach, and then into the bloodstream. This can cause toxic effects on the liver, urinary and cardiovascular systems.

Tartar removal in dogs

The best way to treat this pathology is to remove tartar from dogs. This can be done mechanically or with a modern ultrasound method.

When removing plaque mechanically, there is a risk of damaging the enamel or mucous tissues.

The procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia. The animal is prohibited from eating for 10 hours before the extraction to avoid vomiting during anesthesia. After the anesthesia, the tartar is scraped off manually with a special tool, or ultrasound of varying degrees of vibration is used.

Using the ultrasound method is less painful for the animal, and traumatic damage to the gums and enamel is excluded. However, this method is not suitable for removing tartar located under the gum.

After the procedure, the teeth are carefully polished using special pastes and attachments; the process is completed by applying a bactericidal agent to the treated tissues.

If there are signs of inflammation, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory drugs may be prescribed, supplemented with vitamin complexes, drugs to boost immunity, and metabolic stimulants.

A completely logical question may arise: how to clean a dog's tartar at home? Is it possible? In principle, it is possible, now in veterinary stores and pharmacies there are many special pastes and brushes, as well as chewing bones for cleaning teeth. You can even find specialized dry food for the prevention of tartar in dogs. However, as practice shows, the effect of these methods is temporary, and sooner or later you will still have to remove tartar in a clinic. It is recommended to repeat the tartar removal procedure every 12-18 months.

Prevention

Now let's talk about how to prevent tartar in dogs. The most basic and important aspect of healthy teeth in an animal is oral hygiene. Some pet lovers accustom their puppies to the procedure of brushing their teeth from childhood, at least twice a week. To do this, you need to use a soft brush so as not to injure the gums. Currently, pet stores sell a variety of tooth powders and pastes for dogs.

Give your pet bones (real or imitation) to chew on more often.

When examining the oral cavity, pay special attention to the condition of the gums and mucous membrane. The slightest suspicion of inflammation should be a reason to contact a veterinary specialist.

It is impossible not to remove the formed stone, as this will lead to more serious consequences, which will then be much more difficult to treat.

It is well known that pets require constant care and attention. The key to your pet's well-being and health is regular oral examinations, which allows you to notice and prevent tartar in dogs in time.