Just like humans, dogs require their teeth to be brushed regularly for overall health and well-being. Not doing so can lead to serious health issues, including gum disease, tooth loss, and even organ damage. A dog's oral health can also affect their capacity to eat, leading to nutritional deficiencies. At Supertails+ , we believe in pet health, and dental care is no different. Here we will be discussing all that you need to know about dental care for your dog, including frequent dental issues and how to most effectively clean your dog's teeth and regular visits.

The majority of dog owners overlook the importance of dental health, yet oral care directly correlates with a dog's overall health. Below are some of the reasons why oral care matters:

• Prevents Periodontal Disease: Tooth and gum ailments like gingivitis and periodontitis bring pain, infection, and the loss of teeth. Periodontal disease starts with plaque development and, without treatment, progresses to more critical gum infections that destroy the jawbone and lead to systemic disease complications.

• Prevents Bad Breath: Regular dental care keeps your dog's mouth smelling fresh and clean. Long-standing bad breath, or halitosis, is typically a sign of dental problems and must not be ignored.

• Prevents Systemic Diseases: The mouth bacteria can be transferred to the blood, where they infect major organs like the heart, kidneys, and liver. When the bacteria spread everywhere in the body, they result in serious diseases, lowering the quality of life of your pet.

• Enhances Quality of Life: A healthy-mouthed dog is a happier, more energetic, and pain-free dog. Painful dogs are cranky, do not want to play with chew toys, and even refuse to eat.

Detecting common oral problems can provide early detection and treatment. Common issues are:

• Plaque and Tartar Buildup: Plaque builds up and becomes hardened as tartar, leading to gum disease. Plaque is formed by food particles and bacteria that come into contact to produce a sticky film on the teeth. Symptoms, if not removed, mineralize into tartar that can be removed only by professional cleaning.

• Gingivitis: Inflammation of the gums due to bacterial infection. The redness, swelling, and bleeding gums at times make it rather painful for the dogs to eat.

• Periodontitis: Advanced gum disease that leads to loss of bone and loose teeth. This can extend to tooth loss and excruciating pain in the mouth, and medical intervention is required.

• Dental Decay: Cavity is not common but could occur in the case of poorly cared-for canine teeth. Although dogs are not as susceptible to cavities as humans, chewing on sugar products and poor mouth care can lead to decay.

• Tooth Fractures: Chewing on hard materials like bones can crack teeth. When a tooth is fractured, the internal pulp could become exposed, which is painful and infected.

• Oral Tumors: Abnormal growths or lumps in the mouth should be checked by a veterinarian. Early diagnosis is crucial because some oral tumors are malignant and should be treated immediately.

Also read,  What are the Secrets to Perfect Seasonal Dog Care in India?

Watch for these indications of dental problems in your dog:

• Halitosis or bad breath: A strong, persistent smell may be a symptom of rot or infection.

• Swollen, bleeding, or red gums: Swelling gums may indicate gingivitis or advanced periodontal disease

• Single-sided refusal of chewing or food: If dogs are having painful food or beverage, or are suffering from toothache, they will refuse to chew and eat on one side.

• Yellow or brown tartar on teeth: Visible tartar is a sign of neglected dental care and an increased risk of gum disease.

• Loose or missing teeth: This can be a sign of advanced dental disease and needs to be examined by a vet.

• Excessive drooling: Painful dogs can drool excessively, frequently with a bloodstain.

• Pawing at the mouth: Dogs will rub their mouths when they are unhappy or in pain.

1. Brushing Daily

Brushing your dog's teeth is the most effective way to prevent dental issues. Use a dog toothbrush and toothpaste (never human toothpaste) and attempt to brush at least 2-3 times per week. If your dog is not used to brushing, start slowly by letting them taste the toothpaste and softly rub their teeth with your finger before progressing to a brush.

2. Dental Chews & Treats

Dental chews help reduce plaque and tartar development while keeping your dog engaged. Look for vet-approved dental chews that improve oral health. The dental treats are made to clean your teeth as your dog chews, helping to control bacteria and leave your mouth fresh.

3. Healthy Diet

Healthy dieting aids in oral health. Dry kibble will reduce plaque levels by being a mild abrasive during chewing by the dogs, whereas raw bones (with the help of veterinarians) may be employed for brushing teeth naturally. Avoid table food or sweet treats that induce plaque formation.

4. Water Additives & Dental Sprays

These products can help to dissolve plaque and leave breath fresh. Choose dog-safe, daily-use formulas.  Water additives are convenient—simply add them to your dog's water, and sprays can be sprayed onto the teeth.

5. Frequent Vet Visits

Your pet needs to see a professional dog dentist at least once a year. A vet may check for dental health and do deep cleaning when necessary. Regular checkups allow for the detection of dental issues early enough before they progress into more serious forms requiring extended treatment. If you live in Bangalore you can visit Supertails+ Clinic .  This is Bengaluru’s first pet clinic with Fear-Free Certified Vets, we provide expert guidance on vaccinations and health checks. To ensure your puppy receives the best care, Supertails offers professional online consultations with expert veterinarians who can guide you through the vaccination process and overall puppy health. Book an online consultation today to keep your furry friend safe!

6. Chew Toys

Chew toys help to naturally clean teeth by shedding plaque and tartar. Employ safe, long-lasting, non-toxic, and specifically dental-care-made chew toys. Do not use very hard toys, which may result in tooth breakage.

In some cases, home care is not enough, and a professional dental cleaning is necessary. This involves:

• A thorough oral examination to search for dental issues.

• Plaque and tartar removal with special tools.

• Polishing and fluoride treatment to strengthen teeth and prevent future buildup.

• Potential extractions if needed, especially for severely damaged or infected teeth.

This is performed by veterinarians while your dog is under anesthesia so that the experience is painless and stress-free for your dog. Professional cleanings are recommended annually or as directed by your vet.

Most dog owners are victims of widespread myths and misconceptions surrounding the dental care of their pets. Knowledge of the facts behind the myths will ensure that your pet has good oral health.

Myth 1: Dogs Naturally Clean Their Teeth by Chewing Bones

It is a common myth among most pet parents that providing bones, hard toys, or chew sticks to their dogs will clean their teeth. While chewing does help to loosen some plaque, it is no substitute for proper dental care. Hard bones, in fact, are more of an issue than a solution. Dogs that chew on very hard items, such as rawhide, hooves, or antlers, can break their teeth. A cracked or broken tooth hurts and must be surgically extracted.

Also, chewing by itself cannot remove plaque from all mouth surfaces, especially along the gumline where the bacteria are most likely to accumulate. The optimal way of maintaining your dog's teeth is by regular brushing combined with dental treats and professional dental cleaning.

Myth 2: Bad Dog Breath is Normal

Bad breath, or "doggy breath," is merely taken by some pet owners to be a normal aspect of owning a pet. However, chronic bad breath is often a sign of dental disease. As bacteria spread and grow on the teeth of your dog, they produce odors. In severe cases, foul odor in the breath can indicate gum infections, rotting teeth, or more serious health problems, such as kidney disease or diabetes. Pungent and odorous dog breath would best be addressed with the vet taking a look through dental examination and professional cleaning.

Myth 3: Dry Food Alone Prevents Dental Issues

It is the mistaken belief of some dog parents that by giving their dogs nothing but dry kibble , their teeth will stay clean. While kibble does have some slight abrasive effect to break down and reduce plaque formation, it will never replace daily brushing. In fact, many dogs swallow their kibble with minimal chewing, so the food never gets into close contact with their teeth in order to provide any cleaning benefit. Some dog foods also contain ingredients that contribute to the formation of plaque, so it is even more important to possess a good dental care routine.

To achieve optimal oral health, a combination of daily brushing, chew toys, dental treats, and professional veterinary attention must be employed.

Myth 4: If My Dog Eats and Feels Fine, Their Teeth Are Most Likely Good

Dogs are also tough animals, and they will not normally display that they are hurting. Eating normally and feeling normal in any other aspect is not a sign that their teeth are good. There are many dogs that will keep eating even when they have tooth decay, gum disease, or loose teeth. If a dog displays blatant symptoms of pain—e.g., loss of appetite, slobbering, pawing at his or her mouth—the dental condition is likely very advanced. Regularly scheduled dental checkups and maintenance care are necessary in order to spot problems before they become severe and difficult to treat.

Myth 5: Anesthesia-Free Cleanings Are As Good As Professional Cleanings

Anesthesia-free dental cleanings are also in favor among pet owners who want a milder procedure. Although less intense than professional cleanings under anesthesia, these cleanings are not as thorough. Without anesthetic, it is not possible to clean below the gumline, where all oral problems originate. Also, most dogs stress or upset when taken in for a cleaning, and it is difficult to get an adequate examination and cleaning accomplished without sedation.

Under anesthesia, dental cleanings prevent all of this plaque, tartar, and bacteria from remaining on the dog's teeth in a stress-free and painless procedure.

Myth 6: Dogs Don't Need To Have Their Teeth Brushed Because Wild Dogs Don't Brush Theirs

Few pet owners believe that since wild dogs do not brush their teeth, domestic dogs should not brush their teeth. There is a significant difference, however, between domestic and wild dogs: diet and lifespan. Wild dogs consume a natural diet of raw meat, bones, and fibrous plant material that naturally scrape their teeth. Wild dogs also have shorter lifespans and are not exposed to the long-term consequences of poor teeth.

Household pets live a lot longer and can have their teeth maintained by eating soft food, kibble, and treats that create tartar and plaque. Regular dental care should be provided for keeping the mouth healthy as well as preventing possible fatal medical issues.

Discover our extensive selection of pet oral care products, all designed to cater to the individual requirements of your pet. If you have a dog, cat, or other animals, we have the perfect products to ensure their teeth and gums are in prime health.

1. Pet Toothpaste

Our pet toothpaste is specially made to be both safe and efficient for the oral health of your pet. Our toothpastes come in peanut butter, chicken, and vanilla flavors so your pet will actually enjoy the time spent brushing teeth. The toothpaste available are safe on teeth, wipe away plaque, and kill halitosis germs without poisonous chemicals.

2. Pet Toothbrushes

Keeping your pet's teeth clean is simple with the right equipment. Our toothbrushes for pets are ergonomically shaped for ease of use and comfort. Whatever your preference—fingering brush, classic toothbrush, or electric brush—we have something to fit your pet's size and grooming routine.

3. Dental Chews and Treats

Dental chews are one of the best methods for ensuring your pet has healthy teeth and gums. These dental chews not only keep plaque and tartar at bay but also leave your pet happy and content. They are shaped and sized according to your pet's requirements and many contain fresh breath-promoting ingredients.

4. Water Additives for Pet Oral Care

If your pet is resistant to brushing, a water additive can be an excellent substitute. Just add it to your pet's water and it works to limit plaque, freshen breath, and combat bacteria. This convenient product encourages improved oral health without daily brushing.

5. Pet Oral Health Sprays

For instant and convenient relief from bad breath, use our pet oral  health sprays . Our sprays are designed to leave your pet's breath fresh and gums healthy. Spray instantly onto the pet's teeth and gums for freshness.

Your animal's oral health is important to their overall well-being and long life. Ignoring oral care can lead to pain, infection, tooth loss, and organ damage if the bacteria enter the blood. But by brushing, using dental chews, chew toys, water additives, and yearly check-ups with the vet, you can prevent all that and have your pet's mouth healthy.

Check for bad breath, sore gums, over-salivation, and difficulty eating since these are indicative of dental problems in the future. It will save you from undergoing painful and costly treatments if you catch them early and administer preventive care. By incorporating a routine dental regimen into your pet's care, you're not just getting them good breath, but a healthier, happier, and longer life for your pet.

Here at Supertails+, we are dedicated to giving your pet the best dental care solutions. If you require professional advice, cleanings, or dental products of the highest quality, we're here to ensure your dog's smile stays healthy and bright!

1. Can I use human toothpaste for my pet?

No, human toothpaste has harmful ingredients such as fluoride that will hurt pets if swallowed. Only use pet-friendly toothpaste formulated for animals since it is safe for them to swallow and great at cleaning teeth.

2. What if my pet does not like their teeth being brushed?

If your pet fights against brushing, you can try a finger brush or pet toothpaste with a favorite flavor. Begin slowly by allowing them to acclimate to the process. You can also add other oral care items, such as dental chews or water additives, to assist in keeping their mouth clean.