Entrepreneurs are busy in their professional lives, and it is understandable that they have a lot to manage in their companies. The workload can be overwhelming for those who are pet parents as well. This can sometimes translate to negligence in taking care of their pet’s dental hygiene.
Due to a lack of free time, entrepreneurs tend to focus less on their pet’s grooming, exercise, and feeding. However, your canine friend’s dental health is as important as other aspects because it can have a big impact on their overall well-being. Ignoring it can lead to several health problems that affect not just the teeth and gums but also other parts of the body.
In this article, we will look at the consequences of neglecting your dog’s dental health.
Tooth Decay and Gum Disease
The accumulation of plaque and tartar on your dog’s teeth is one of the primary consequences of dental neglect. This accumulation eventually causes gum disease, commonly referred to as periodontal disease, and tooth rot.
As noted in an NCBI article, it is among dogs’ most common inflammatory oral illnesses. The development of dental plaque, a polymicrobial biofilm, on the tooth surface characterizes the disease onset. A local host inflammatory reaction surrounding the infected teeth occurs after it.
Several measures aimed at preventing and controlling the formation of dental plaque are significant for managing this condition. As it progresses, it can lead to severe infections, tooth loss, and harm to the tooth-supporting tissues.
Dogs with severe gum disease may slobber, have trouble eating, or suffer from foul breath. Chewing can be difficult due to painful, swollen gums, which can cause eating avoidance, weight loss, or even behavioral problems. This disorder might become permanent if left untreated.
Cleaning professionally can also be costly, depending on the severity of the decay. Data shows that the cost of having their teeth cleaned by a general practitioner veterinarian can range from $170 to $350. Alternatively, if a board-certified veterinary dentist performs it at a high-end clinic, it can cost up to $4,000 based on the treatments.
Risk of Organ Damage
Not all oral microorganisms are contained in the mouth. Inflamed gums can allow germs to enter the circulation in severe cases of periodontal disease.
These germs can enter the circulation and then make their way to important organs, including the kidneys, liver, and heart. Serious health issues, including renal failure, liver illness, or endocarditis (an infection of the inner lining of the heart), may result from this.
The link between organ damage and poor oral health highlights how important early intervention is. Regular dental care can lower the risk of systemic health problems and help stop the spread of dangerous microorganisms.
As stated by Texas A&M Today, it is important to create a dental care routine for your canine friend. Brushing is one of the most basic things to do for your pet’s dental hygiene. However, it is not the only thing that should be included in the care routine. You should also consider wiping the plaque buildup from time to time.
Dental wipes can be the best way to keep dogs’ teeth clean for an extended period. In fact, there are wipes available that can be used as an alternative to everyday brushing. These wipes are pre-moisturized and contain several natural enzymes that can fight bacteria and keep the teeth clean. This will help keep the plaque buildup and inflammation at bay and keep your furry friend’s mouth clean and odor-free.
According to Jax & Cali, brushing the teeth of your pets can be troublesome at times. Usually, they don’t prefer the toothbrush around their mouth, leading to uneasiness among them. This problem can be overcome with wipes that can allow you to easily clean your dog’s teeth with your fingertips.
Pain and Discomfort
Since dogs are adept at masking pain, symptoms of dental discomfort might not always be readily apparent. However, over time, poor oral care can lead to excruciating discomfort. Infected or decaying teeth can create abscesses, which are not only painful but also can rupture, spreading the infection further.
A shift in behavior, avoidance of chew toys, or pawing at the mouth might be indicators of dental discomfort. Another symptom can be increased sneezing, which can be caused due to a number of reasons. Business Insider states that one of the reasons could be dental problems and abscesses.
If dogs chew on hard things like bones, their teeth may chip. This allows bacteria to enter the tissues of the jaw and result in an abscess, which can be very painful. It can be so painful that it can make even a German Shepherd cry out in pain. The infection can then spread to the nose and make your pet sneeze more frequently.
A slight problem can soon worsen and need expensive, involved dental procedures like surgery or extractions.
Impact on Behavior
When a dog is uncomfortable, their behavior frequently varies. Your dog can start being more reclusive or agitated. Some dogs attempt to defend themselves from the agony of swollen gums or rotting teeth by growling or snapping when their mouth is touched.
Another indication is a shift in eating patterns. When a dog is in discomfort, they may start to eat less and avoid hard meals, or they may swallow food without chewing. When paired with other indicators, these changes may indicate a tooth problem that requires care.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I brush my dog’s teeth?
Brushing your dog’s teeth at least twice or three times a week is advised. It is best to brush your teeth every day to help prevent plaque accumulation, which can cause tooth decay and gum disease. Since human toothpaste can be dangerous to pets, it’s essential to use toothpaste made specifically for dogs.
What are the signs that my dog has dental problems?
Bad breath, drooling, swollen or bleeding gums, and behavioral changes like irritation or avoidance of chew toys are typical indicators of dental problems. It is a good idea to have your dog’s teeth examined by a veterinarian if you observe any of these signs.
Is bad breath in dogs always a sign of dental disease?
One of the most typical indicators of dental problems is bad breath. However, it can also point to other health concerns, including diabetes or digestive disorders. To find the root reason for your dog’s recurrent foul breath, it’s worth seeing a veterinarian.
When your dog’s oral health is neglected, it can result in a variety of issues, from tooth rotting to major organ damage. Early and consistent oral hygiene care can spare your dog needless suffering and perhaps fatal problems. You can protect your dog’s general health and ensure they remain active and healthy for many years by providing for their dental needs.
