Periodontal disease is the most common oral problem that dogs face. Adversely affecting the tissues that support and surround the teeth, periodontal disease is usually the result of excessive plaque buildup. As plaque accumulates on the teeth, it gradually hardens into tartar.

When plaque accumulates on the teeth it provides a perfect environment for the growth of bacteria. The bacteria cause irritation to the gums. The irritation causing the gums to swell and eventually bleed. As the inflammation worsens, additional bacteria are produced. This causes the gums to recede and exposes the tooth’s root. It also results in bone tissue loss causing the teeth to become loose in their sockets. If left untreated, the teeth ultimately fall out.

The symptoms of periodontal disease include brown or yellow stains on the teeth, consistently bad breath, reddened gums and exposed tooth roots. In addition if your dog seems to have difficulty chewing, excessive drooling, a reluctance to eat or mouth pain (as evidenced by pawing at his mouth or rubbing his face on the ground) the problem may be periodontal disease.

Periodontal disease is quite painful and may result in tooth loss. However, the condition can cause additional, even more serious, health problems. The accumulation of bacteria may result in bacteria entering the blood steam. Once in the blood it can migrate to the urinary tract, heart valves, and other systems of the body. This chain reaction, starting innocently enough as a result of inadequate oral hygiene can ultimately lead to life-threatening complications.

While all breeds of dogs are at risk, periodontal disease is more commonly found in dogs with flat faces and short muzzles. Additionally, senior dogs are also at increased risk. Dogs whose diet is primarily moist, canned dog food are also more at risk than those who are usually fed dry dog food.

Treatment of periodontal disease is dependent upon how far the disease has progressed. In less severe cases, brushing your dog’s teeth on a regular basis may eliminate it. For more advanced cases, the dog’s teeth may have to be descaled. This is usually performed by your veterinarian with the dog sedated under general anesthesia. If it is found that the disease has progressed to a very late stage, a specialist may have to perform advanced dental surgery.

As with most health issues, prevention and early detection are essential. Regular brushing of your dog’s teeth will help fight the buildup of plaque. Additionally, regular visits to your veterinarian for a periodic check-ups can identify hidden damage to the teeth before a problem grows more serious.

Help your dog maintain overall health through regular veterinary check-ups, providing a healthy diet, brushing of your dog’s teeth, and giving him the occasional chew toy. He’ll appreciate your efforts to keep him from growing “long in the tooth”.

Jim Navary has been a freelance writer and researcher for over thirty years encompassing a wide range of topics. He has also been a dog lover for longer than he’d care to remember. Please check out his DogBurg web site for canine friends at DogBurg.com. Once there, sign up for his newsletter for dog lovers and receive the free ebook, “Pamper Your Dog: 130 Recipes for Your Canine Friend.”

#1 – Keep Dangerous Poisons Out Of Reach

Your canine’s appetite isn’t limited to the meals you provide him during the day. Given the opportunity, he’ll eat items that are not meant to be consumed (at least, not by him). For example, he may begin eating antifreeze if it is left within his reach. He might also start eating mouse bait, pesticides, and your own medications. Each of these items can lead to significant health issues. Keep them out of his reach.

#2 – Tag Him

You may think it could never happen, but many owners have learned that their dogs are always willing to explore if they’re given the chance. One of the reasons animal shelters in many cities are overflowing is because canines get loose and roam until they’re found. Put a collar and tag on your pooch. Also, consider microchipping him. Then, once a week, check to make sure his collar and tags are secure.

#3 – Keep His Head In The Car

It is a rare dog that doesn’t love to ride in a car with his head sticking out of the window. The problem is that it invites bugs and debris into his eyes. Plus, if you’re involved in a traffic collision, your pooch can be injured. If he’s going to ride in the car with you, keep the windows up enough to prevent him hanging his head outside.

#4 – Make Him Ride In The Cab

Owners will often place their dogs in the exposed bed of their trucks. This is incredibly dangerous for a few reasons. First, the stopping and starting can throw him off balance, often into the sides of the vehicle. Second, taking a sharp turn while your pooch is elevated on the side of the vehicle can throw him from the back into traffic. If you own a truck and you’re bringing him along, keep him in the cab.

#5 – Have A Veterinarian On File

The worst time to look for a veterinarian is when your dog desperately needs one. You should have the name and contact information of a trusted vet within reach. That includes his or her office phone and an emergency number. You should also have a back-up veterinarian that you can take your canine to in the event your primary vet is unavailable.

Your dog’s safety is at risk from accidents. Whether he’s getting into rat poison, becomes lost, or is riding in the back of your truck, you don’t expect him to get into trouble. It happens unexpectedly. Take the time to make sure he’s as safe as possible.

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