How to Treat Periodontal Disease in Dogs
Periodontal disease develops in dogs when bacteria builds up and forms plaque on the teeth. The excessive amount of plaque causes inflammation in the gums, which can be uncomfortable for your dog. Brushing your dog's teeth regularly can prevent this from occurring, but when your dog develops it, it's important to treat it before it seriously affects your dog's health. Continue reading to find out how to treat periodontal disease in dogs.
Things You'll Need
- Dog toothbrush
- Dog toothpaste
- Herbs: Oregon grape, echinacea and calendula
- Coenzyme Q10 or vitamin C
- Oral dental spray
Instructions
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How to Treat Periodontal Disease in Dogs
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1
Brush your dog's teeth at least once a week to remove the plaque buildup. Also, give your pet dental bones, because these will help scrape off plaque on days when you don't brush.
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2
Apply a tincture (alcoholic extract) of Oregon grape (antiseptic), echinacea (fights infections) or calendula (heals tissue and stops bleeding) to your dog's gums. These herbs are gentle and natural.
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3
Start giving your dog a daily supplement. For example, Coenzyme Q10 reduces swelling, redness and bleeding in the gums so they can heal. Vitamin C can also be used to boost your dog's immune system so it can fight off the bacteria.
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4
Use an oral dental spray to prevent more plaque and tartar. Some sprays are made from natural plant extracts that kill the bacteria on contact.
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5
Incorporate treats into your dog's diet that help maintain healthy gums and teeth. Look for treats that you can sprinkle onto the dog's regular food that include some of the following ingredients: dental-active natural cheeses, apple polyphenols and minerals.
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Tips & Warnings
Monitor your dog's gums every day and check for swelling as well as pockets in the gum that collect plaque and tartar. Bad breath is often an indication of poor dental hygiene.
If the plaque has turned into tartar, you need to take your dog to the veterinarian to have it professionally removed so your dog doesn't start losing its teeth.
Resources
- Photo Credit Made available by www.pawdigs.com.
