Effective Solutions for Dog Dental Calculus: Say Goodby

Dental tartar in dogs is more than just a cause of bad breath; if left untreated, it can lead to serious oral health issues such as gingivitis and periodontal disease, which can ultimately affect your pet's overall wellbeing. Therefore, it's crucial to promptly remove and prevent tartar buildup in your dog's mouth.

【Common Methods for Removing Dog Dental Tartar】

1. Brushing: This is the simplest and most routine form of cleaning. Regularly brush your dog's teeth with a brush and toothpaste specifically designed for canines, at least once a week, to effectively remove plaque and minor tartar.

2. Dental Gels: For existing tartar, dental gels can be used to soften it, allowing for gentle removal with the help of tools. This method is suitable for cases where tartar is not too severe.

3. Dental Chews or Treats: By letting your dog chew on hard dental chews or treats, you can help naturally remove plaque and tartar from the surface of their teeth.

4. Ultrasonic Cleaning: For severe tartar buildup, it's advisable to take your dog to a veterinary clinic for a professional teeth cleaning. Vets will use ultrasonic cleaning tools to thoroughly remove tartar from both the surface of the teeth and beneath the gum line.

Here are the steps involved in professional dental cleaning:

(1) Anesthesia

• General Anesthesia: To ensure the safety and thoroughness of the cleaning process, dogs are typically placed under general anesthesia. This prevents them from moving during the procedure, reducing the risk of injury to their teeth or mouth.

• Preanesthetic Examination: Before anesthesia, a vet will conduct a comprehensive physical examination of your dog, including blood tests and an ECG, to ensure they are suitable for anesthesia.

(2) Ultrasonic Cleaning

• Ultrasonic Cleaning Machine: Vets use an ultrasonic cleaning machine to vibrate and remove tartar from both the surface of the teeth and beneath the gum line. This method does not damage the teeth but effectively eliminates stubborn tartar.

• Manual Scraping: For tartar that is difficult to remove with ultrasound, vets may use manual tools for scraping.

(3) Polishing

• Teeth Polishing: After cleaning, the vet will polish the teeth to make the surface smoother, reducing the attachment of plaque and tartar.

(4) Local Treatment

• Antibiotics: If your dog's gums are inflamed or infected, the vet may apply antibacterial medications or fluoride coatings to the teeth and gums to prevent further inflammation and infection. In severe cases, your dog may be prescribed antibiotics, such as Clavamox (amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium).

While professional dental cleaning is the most effective way to remove tartar, daily home care is essential for preventing tartar buildup and reducing the frequency of professional cleanings. It's recommended to implement these care measures: regular brushing, using specialized oral hygiene products, providing dental chews and treats, and feeding a balanced diet, among others.