Doggie Dental Health for a Long Life

by Dr. Julie Buzby

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courtesy Photonquantique via Flickr.com
Brushing is Best

Though no scientific studies have been done to prove that appropriate dental care will extend your dog’s lifespan, I am convinced that it will. 

Dental disease is perhaps the most common malady seen in dogs today, especially small breed dogs.  This is not just about “dirty teeth”.  Dogs with periodontal disease suffer from infection and inflammation that can lead to tooth loss, gum disease, and significant pain.  Bad odor coming from a dog’s mouth is not normal.  The smell comes from bacteria and is my first clue that a dog has an unhealthy mouth.

Besides the effects on the gums and teeth, dental disease can cause problems in other body systems.  In people, there is a conclusive link between heart disease and periodontal disease.  Longstanding inflammation and infection in the mouth set up for bacteria being released into the bloodstream.  The kidneys, liver, lungs, and heart can all be damaged by this bacterial shower.

Many of my clients are surprised when I point out problems in their dog’s mouth on a routine physical exam.  A thorough oral exam is one of the most important parts of my examination.  Most dogs will develop some degree of periodontal disease during their lifetime depending on breed, age, genetics, and home care. 

Now for the good news: periodontal disease is preventable and treatable.  As for prevention, we can’t change your dog’s DNA, but home care is a vital part of keeping your dog’s mouth healthy.  I recommend daily teeth brushing, ideally beginning as a puppy.  It takes less than 12 hours for bacteria to attach to a tooth's surface. The bacteria then absorb calcium from saliva and become mineralized, forming tartar. This is why brushing is recommended daily, to continually break this cycle.  While any type of toothbrush is fine, do not use human toothpaste, as it may cause tummy upset and the fluoride can be toxic.

There is simply no substitute for brushing, because it mechanically breaks up the plaque, but there are other home care options when brushing simply is not possible. Ask your veterinarian to help you develop a custom dental home care plan for your dog. 

Based on what is discovered during your dog’s oral exam, your veterinarian may also recommend a professional dental procedure, which will involve cleaning the teeth, and possibly dental x-rays and extractions.  For many dogs, these therapeutic dental procedures are like a drink from the Fountain of Youth.  Clients are stunned by the dramatic positive changes in their dog’s attitude and vitality after pain and infection in the mouth have been resolved.

While it’s my opinion and observation that a healthy mouth will extend a dog’s quantity of life, it is a fact that a healthy mouth will enhance a dog’s quality of life.  That should be enough to make all of us take dental care more seriously!

Dr. Julie Buzby is a homeschooling mom of seven, American Veterinary Chiropractic Association and International Veterinary Acupuncture Society certified holistic veterinarian, and passionate advocate for canine mobility.In her free time she serves on the Advisory Board for The Grey Muzzle Organization. She can be found at Twitter @DrBuzby and on Facebook.com/ToeGrips. You'll also find more of Dr. Julie's posts at our Ask the Vet Archives page.

Here are a few of her articles that may be of interest:

• Tweaking Your Dog's Vaccinations
• Insight on Friendship Changes
• Our Vet's Best Advice on Nutrition
• Skin Rashes

Dr. Julie's opinion or advice does not replace an actual exam with a veterinarian.