The Ultimate Guide on Dog and Bad Breath

Unhealthy teeth and gums along with bad breath isn’t something pleasant. Not only is it extremely unpleasant, it can lead to various health complications like infections, gut problems and other diseases related to poor hygiene. Some new research has also shown a connection between poor dental health and poor heart health. Like our dental hygiene, our Dog and Bad Breath are something that we need to care for.

The structure of a dog's teeth is adapted to their natural diet and behaviour. Dogs have four types of teeth, each serving a specific purpose in the eating and chewing process. Here's an overview of the structure of a dog's teeth:

Incisors:

• Location: Found at the front of the mouth.
• Function: Incisors are used for grasping and nibbling. They help the dog pick up and manipulate food.

Canines:

• Location: Pointed teeth, often referred to as fangs, located next to the incisors.
• Function: Canines are used for tearing and holding onto objects. They play a crucial role in a dog's ability to catch and hold prey.

Premolars:

• Location: Situated behind the canines.
• Function: Premolars have flat surfaces and are used for cutting, shearing, and grinding. They help in breaking down food into smaller, more manageable pieces.

Molars:

• Location: Positioned at the back of the mouth.
• Function: Molars are the largest teeth and are primarily responsible for grinding and crushing food. They aid in the final stages of digestion before swallowing.

In total, adult dogs typically have 42 teeth, while puppies have 28 deciduous (baby) teeth that are eventually replaced by their permanent set.

Common Diseases in Dogs Due to Poor Dental Hygiene

Poor dental hygiene in dogs can lead to various dental diseases that can affect their overall health. Here are some common dental issues related to inadequate dental care:

Gingivitis:

• Description: Gingivitis is the inflammation of the gums. It is often caused by the buildup of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, on the teeth and along the gumline.
• Symptoms: Red and swollen gums, bad breath, and sometimes bleeding during brushing or chewing.
• Consequences: If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to more severe periodontal disease with horrible dog breath.

Periodontal Disease:

• Description: Periodontal disease is an advanced stage of gum disease that affects the tissues supporting the teeth, including the bone.
• Symptoms: In addition to the symptoms of gingivitis, signs may include loose teeth, receding gums, and pain while eating.
• Consequences: Untreated periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss and may contribute to systemic health issues such as heart and kidney problems.

Dental Abscesses:

• Description: Abscesses are pockets of infection that can form in the tooth root or the surrounding tissues.
• Symptoms: Swelling around the face or jaw, pain, difficulty eating, and in some cases, pus discharge and horrible dog breath.
• Consequences: Dental abscesses can be extremely painful and may require dental intervention, including tooth extraction.

Tooth Decay (Caries):

• Description: While less common in dogs than in humans, tooth decay can occur, especially in small breeds. It is often associated with a high-sugar diet.
• Symptoms: Discoloured spots on the teeth, visible holes or pits, dog mouth smell.
• Consequences: Untreated tooth decay can lead to infection and tooth loss.

Malocclusion:

• Description: Malocclusion refers to misalignment of the teeth, where the upper and lower teeth do not meet correctly.
• Symptoms: Difficulty chewing, uneven wear on the teeth, and in severe cases, pain or injury to the oral tissues.
• Consequences: Malocclusion can contribute to dental problems and may require corrective measures, such as tooth extraction or orthodontic procedures.

Oral Tumours:

• Description: Tumours can develop in the mouth, including the gums, tongue, or other oral tissues.
• Symptoms: Swelling, bleeding, dog mouth smell, and changes in eating or chewing habits.
• Consequences: Oral tumours may be benign or malignant and require veterinary evaluation and treatment.

Preventing dental diseases in dogs involves regular dental care, including brushing their teeth, providing dental chews or toys, and scheduling routine veterinary dental checkups. If you notice any signs of dental issues, it's crucial to seek veterinary advice promptly to address the problem and prevent further complications.

How to Take Care of Dog Teeth to Reduce Disease in Dog and Bad Breath:

1. Use dog toothpaste to brush your dog’s teeth twice everyday
2. Use a good quality dog mouth freshner regularly
3. Use dental chew treats or chew chew treats for fussy dogs who do not like to brush
4. Do no feed your pup low quality food or treats that can harm their teeth
5. Dental diseases in Dog and Bad Breath can be prevented by paying regular visits to the vet and grooming parlours.

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