Your dog is going to need those teeth for a long time
According to the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association, 80% of cats and dogs will show signs of periodontal disease including, red and swollen gums, bad breath, pain, and tooth loss. Small and mid-sized dog breeds are especially susceptible.
If left untreated, periodontal disease progresses to plaque build up, gum recession, loosened teeth, bad breath, inflammation and bleeding of the gums, and eventually loss of teeth, oral infections, and even poor overall health.
Bad breath is usually the first telltale sign that your dog has underlying oral health issues. As a pet owner, it is important to do more than just focus on your dog’s bad breath. An oral health care regime is important for long-term health.
There are a number of things that you can do to ensure good oral health for your pet. An easy to follow oral care routine can reduce the likelihood of periodontal disease, discomfort for your dog and costly teeth cleaning visits to the vet, which often require general anesthetic.
Good pet oral care is not rocket science, but it is science!
Good oral care for dogs is not that different than it is for people. Multiple modes are best – we brush, floss and rinse, and the same multi-mode principle applies to dogs. Remember, only use oral care products that have been clinically proven to be effective and safe for your pet – like all bluestem oral care products.
Mechanical - The single most effective mode for cleaning teeth is the mechanical action of direct contact. Brushing teeth using toothpaste formulated for dogs is the best defense. Specially designed dental chews and toys can also provide the mechanical abrasion to clean dog’s teeth
Rinsing - Rinses complement the mechanical action of teeth cleaning by ensuring the whole mouth; teeth, tongue, gums and palate, receive attention. Of course dogs and cats can’t rinse and spit so an easy to use drinking water additive is the ideal choice. Gels and foams can also be used. The key is to choose a rinse that has the right formulation to prevent and disperse biofilm, where harmful bacteria associated with periodontal disease multiply.
Diet - Specialized dog food products are also available, usually in larger, dry kibble form, that also can help clean teeth through chewing action.
Make it routine - Just like caring for our own teeth is an everyday function, so it goes for cats and dogs. It’s important to select a routine that you, as a pet owner, can conveniently take care of every day. Despite best intensions, brushing our dog’s teeth can be a challenge to do every day. This is another reason why daily use of a premium oral care rinse, like bluestem oral care water additive, makes for a healthier mouth and a happier dog.
