Introduction
Oral health issues are extremely common in dogs, with studies showing that 80-89% of dogs over 3 years old suffer from some form of periodontal disease (Enlund 2020). Periodontal disease, which affects the gums and bones supporting the teeth, can lead to tooth loss, infections, and other health complications if left untreated. Regular dental cleanings and checkups are essential for preventing these issues.
Despite the prevalence and risks of dental disease, many dog owners do not prioritize oral health or regularly inspect their dog’s mouth. According to one survey, only 23% of dog owners checked their dog’s teeth at least once a week (Enlund 2020). This highlights the need for greater education and proactive dental care among pet owners.
Importance of Regular Dental Checkups
Regular dental checkups and cleanings are crucial for maintaining your dog’s oral health and preventing more serious dental disease. According to PetMD, prevention is key, as damaged or infected tooth structures can lead to loose and lost teeth. When tartar builds up on a dog’s teeth, it allows bacteria to thrive, which can progress to periodontal disease, a serious gum infection.
As BluePearl Pet Hospital explains, tartar begins forming within days after a professional dental cleaning. Within months, it hardens into calculus, which irritates the gums, damages tooth attachments, and promotes gum disease. Regular cleanings every 6-12 months allow veterinarians to scale off tartar before it gets out of control.
Gum disease is extremely common in dogs over 3 years old. Infection spreads from the gums to tooth roots and the supporting bone, causing loose teeth, receding gums, bad breath, and tooth loss. However, preventive dental care can stop disease progression and save teeth.
Dental Treats
Dental treats are specially formulated dog chews that are designed to help clean dogs’ teeth and improve their oral health. According to WebMD, there are several types of dental treats available for dogs:
- Edible chews made with abrasives that scrape away plaque and tartar as the dog chews. These include rawhide, vegetable chews, and edible biscuits.
- Enzyme-enhanced rawhide chews that help break down plaque.
- Dental diets – dry kibble formulated to scrub the teeth.
- Treats fortified with chemicals that prevent plaque from turning into tartar.
The main purpose of dental treats is to clean a dog’s teeth and reduce plaque and tartar buildup as the dog chews. According to a study published in PubMed, daily dental chew consumption was shown to result in a reduction of plaque and calculus on dogs’ teeth (Quest, 2013).
The chewing action scrapes plaque and tartar off the teeth, while ingredients like baking soda, enzymes, and antioxidants help fight bacteria and freshen breath. This provides the dental benefits of brushing without having to actually brush the dog’s teeth.
Other benefits of dental treats include:
- Improve oral health by reducing plaque and tartar
- Help clean hard-to-reach back teeth
- Freshen dog’s breath
- Provide mental stimulation and satisfaction from chewing
Potential Side Effects of Dental Treats
While dental treats can provide some oral health benefits for dogs, they also carry potential risks. Some of the most common side effects to be aware of include:
Choking Hazards
Hard dental treats or chews can pose a choking risk, especially for dogs that tend to gulp their food. According to the ASPCA, treats that are too hard or too large can get lodged in a dog’s windpipe, causing choking and breathing difficulties [1]. Pay close attention while your dog is eating any kind of dental chew and consider size-appropriate options.
Gastrointestinal Issues
Some ingredients in dental treats may irritate a dog’s digestive tract or cause gastrointestinal upset. For example, WebMD notes that treats containing sorbitol or other sugar alcohols can have a laxative effect [2]. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may experience vomiting, diarrhea or other issues.
Allergies
As with any food or treat, dental chews may trigger allergic reactions in some dogs. Signs can include itching, skin irritation, digestive problems, and breathing issues. Common allergens in treats include wheat, corn, soy, and chicken. It’s important to monitor your dog for any abnormal reactions after introducing a new dental chew.
Ingredients to Watch Out For
Some ingredients commonly found in dental treats can be toxic to dogs if consumed in large quantities. The main ingredient to be aware of is xylitol.
Xylitol is an artificial sweetener used in many human foods and products, like gum and toothpaste. It is extremely toxic to dogs [1]. Even small amounts of xylitol can cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), seizures, liver failure, or even death in dogs [2].
Other sugar alcohols like sorbitol and maltitol can also have adverse effects in dogs if consumed in large amounts. They may cause gastrointestinal upset like vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
When selecting dental treats for dogs, it’s important to read the ingredient list carefully and avoid products containing xylitol or other sugar alcohols. Opt for treats made with natural ingredients that are safe for canine consumption.
Tips for Choosing Safe Treats
When selecting dental treats for your dog, there are some key factors to consider to ensure you choose a safe option:
Size – Treats should be appropriate for your dog’s size. Large breeds can handle bigger treats while smaller breeds need treats that won’t pose a choking hazard. Look for treats sized for your dog’s weight range.
Texture – The texture of the treat matters too. Hard, brittle treats can fracture teeth. Look for treats with some flex or “give” to them. Softer treats are gentler on teeth.
Limited ingredients – Treats with fewer, natural ingredients are ideal. Avoid treats with artificial flavors, colors and preservatives. Single ingredient treats like bully sticks can be a good choice.
Stick to treats from reputable brands that indicate the treat is veterinarian recommended or approved by veterinary oral health councils. Follow package instructions and monitor your dog while they enjoy treats.
Alternatives to Dental Treats
While dental treats can help clean teeth, they should not be relied on as the sole method of dental care. Some healthy alternatives to dental treats include:
Brushing
Brushing your dog’s teeth regularly is the most effective way to remove plaque and tartar buildup. Vets recommend brushing your dog’s teeth at least 2-3 times per week using dog-safe toothpaste and a soft toothbrush [1]. This mechanical abrasion helps disrupt biofilm formation and keep your dog’s teeth clean.
Dental Diets
Feeding your dog dental diet dog food can also help clean their teeth. These diets contain kibble that is larger and specifically designed to scrape plaque and tartar off teeth as the dog chews [2]. Look for dental diet foods that carry the VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council) Seal of Acceptance.
Discuss options like brushing and dental diets with your veterinarian to come up with the best dental care plan for your dog.
Signs of Dental Problems
Some common signs that a dog may be suffering from dental disease include:
Bad Breath – Persistent bad breath or a foul odor coming from the mouth is one of the most obvious signs of dental disease in dogs. Bad breath is often due to a buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth and gums.
Gingivitis – The gums become inflamed, swollen, or red. Inflamed gums tend to bleed easily during teeth brushing or when chewing. Gingivitis is the early stage of periodontal disease in dogs.
Growths in Mouth – Some dental diseases like gum disease can lead to abnormal tissue growths in the mouth. Signs to look out for include lumps, masses, and ulcers on the gums, tongue, lips or palate.
Other signs like reduced appetite, dropping food, loose teeth, pawing at the mouth, and facial swelling may also indicate dental problems in dogs. It’s important to routinely check a dog’s mouth for any abnormalities and ensure regular professional dental cleanings.
When to See a Veterinarian
Dental issues in dogs can rapidly escalate if left untreated. It’s important to watch for signs of dental disease and schedule a veterinary visit if you notice any of the following:
- Loose teeth – This may indicate advanced periodontal disease affecting the tooth roots and supporting structures. According to Green Dog Dental, loose teeth often need to be extracted.
- Bleeding gums – Inflamed gums that bleed easily while eating or when brushed point to gingivitis or advanced periodontal disease. As noted by My Petsies, bloody gums signify an infection that requires veterinary attention.
- Facial swelling – Swelling around the mouth, jowls or under the eyes can indicate an abscess or infection spreading from the tooth root. Draining and antibiotics may be necessary.
Don’t delay if you notice these red flag symptoms in your dog. A veterinary dental exam can determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment to relieve pain and prevent the condition from worsening.
Conclusion
In summary, regular dental checkups and proper oral hygiene are extremely important for your dog’s overall health and wellbeing. Poor dental health can lead to more serious medical issues, so being proactive about your dog’s oral care is essential. There are many dental treats and chews available to help clean your dog’s teeth, but be cautious of potential side effects from certain ingredients. Look for all-natural, vet-recommended products and monitor your dog closely when introducing any new treat. Schedule regular dental cleanings with your vet and watch for signs of dental problems. With proper care and attention, you can help your dog maintain good oral health for years to come.