Pet Products - Why Keeping Your Dog's Teeth Clean Is Important

Did you know that your dog's dental health is just as important as yours? Just imagine what would happen to your mouth if you did not brush your teeth regularly. Well, the same thing will happen to your dog's mouth if you do not clean their teeth.

There are two main types of bacteria in your dog's mouth that can cause disease and infection:

• Plaque. Plaque is the initial build-up of bacteria and sugars on your dog's teeth. It is a sticky, colorless film that is constantly forming. It is the main cause of mouth and gum disease.

• Calculus or Tartar. Tartar is plaque that has hardened on the teeth. It can also form underneath the gum. Tartar gives plaque more surface area to grow on and a stickier surface to adhere to.

A number of diseases and infections can develop as a result of tartar and plaque. These infections occur not only in the dog's mouth, but also in other parts of the body:

• Gingivitis is an inflammation of your dog's gums as a result of a buildup of plaque and tartar.

• Periodontitis is an oral cavity disease that attacks the gum, bone, and tissues around the teeth.

• Pyorrhea is an inflammation of the gum and tooth sockets, often resulting in puss and the loosening of teeth.

• Caries is the decalcification of the tooth enamel, leading to cavities.

• In addition to infection of the mouth and gums, tartar and other mouth infections can contain bacteria that can spread to other parts of your dog's body, infecting the heart, kidneys, intestinal tract and joints.

In order to prevent infection in your dog's mouth, you need to prevent plaque and tartar buildup. There are many ways to do this:

• Tooth brushing. This is the best way to prevent tartar. Veterinarians recommend that all dogs have their teeth brushed at least twice a week. You can buy special toothpaste and toothbrushes just for your dog.

• CET Chews. While tooth brushing is the best way to protect your dog's oral health, it is true that most people don't have the time or patience to brush their dog's teeth multiple times a week. Giving your dog chews is another way to maintain oral health. CET chews are made of tough rawhide that has been treated with enzymes to help control plaque buildup. This makes them more effective than regular chews. CET chews work to keep your dog's teeth healthy and clean and its breath fresh. You can either use them daily or on the days when brushing just isn't possible.

• Drinking Water Additives. This is another great way to control the plaque and tartar buildup on your dog's teeth and it's really easy to use. Simply add the medication to your dog's water bowl. Drinking water additives reduces plaque and tartar by killing the bacteria in your dog's mouth. Using drinking water additives also helps to reduce tooth decay.

Maintaining your dog's oral hygiene is one of the most important aspects in maintaining their overall health. Prevention of oral disease should be a regular part of your dog's grooming routine. Whether you choose to use brushing, chews, drinking water additives, or a combination of the three, be sure to consistently support your dog's oral health. They'll love you for it!

Corner Animal Hospital - Pet Pharmacy & Long Island Veterinary Service
http://corneranimal.com/

Buy the medications your pet needs with confidence at the Corner Animal Hospital's Online Pet Pharmacy. Owned by Ivy League Educated Dr. Dorothy Hayes and Dr. Judith Lombardi Daniels. "We treat your pets as family members. Their health and comfort are our primary concern."

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