The English Bulldog Puppy Blog

It is most unfortunate to know that dental hygiene for dogs is often neglected. Most people expect dogs to have bad breath. While a fewer number of dog owners rush their dogs’ teeth frequently as they should do. Dental hygiene is just as important to other health components such as nutrition, proper exercise and routine grooming. Help keep your bulldog healthy. Pay attention to those pearly whites.

“An ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure.”

Early treatment when it comes to teeth problems will help avoid severe dental diseases. You can simply monitor your English bulldog’s teeth by taking a look at them on a regular basis and be aware of signs that may indicate a problem. You can inspect your dog’s teeth by lifting the lips around the mouth, look at the front and back teeth as closely as possible. Be gentle and use caution so you won’t end up bitten by your own dog. If you would rather choose to leave it to the hands of professionals, you can have your vet take a look at your dog’s teeth during routine examinations. It is recommended to visit your pet’s vet every 6 to 12 months for a total check up.

Contact your vet if any problems appear:

• Halitosis (bad breath)
• Reluctance to chew / crying out when chewing
• Increased salivation
• Red and/or puffy gums
• Bleeding gums
• Tartar / Calculus (hard coating on teeth that is usually brown or yellow; results from plaque build-up)
• Missing and/or loose teeth
• Anything else about the mouth that appears unusual

The risks of dental disease

When plaques build up on the teeth over time then it will turn into tartar or calculus. These areas grow bacteria and then slowly destroy teeth and gums. Halitosis, periodontal disease, oral pain and tooth loss can occur. The bacteria Streptococcus mutans is a significant contributor to tooth decay. It does not only cause oral diseases but also affects other parts of the body including the heart and kidneys. The most important thing to do is address dental disease as soon as it is detected regardless if it is a minor or major problem. Better yet, aim to minimize tooth damage of your dog with routine check ups rather than treat a seemingly severe tooth decay that places your dog to other threats to its health.

How to prevent dental disease in bulldogs (and dogs in general)

There are several things you can do to help keep your dog’s teeth in good shape. Initiate a dental care routine as early as possible in your dog’s life. The younger your dog is, the easier to make your dog get used to the feeling of having his teeth brushed and inspected. Puppies have 28 deciduous teeth that typically fall out by about six months of age. By this time, your dog should be getting his teeth brushed regularly. Here are some important tips to remember when you decide to brush your dog’s teeth:

1. Before you begin, ask your veterinarian to show you some techniques to make tooth brushing easier on you and your dog.
2. Plaque begins to turn into tartar / calculus within 24-48 hours, so daily brushing is recommended. Work your dog’s tooth brushing into your own routine – consider brushing his teeth around the same time you do yours so it will be easier to remember.
3. NEVER brush your dog’s teeth with human toothpaste – it can make your dog sick! Use special enzymatic toothpaste made especially for dogs. The same goes for oral rinses.
4. Use a “finger brush” or special long toothbrush designed for use on dogs. When starting out with brushings, the finger brush can help ease your dog into it, as these do not feel as awkward as hard brushes.

If you find it difficult to brush your dog’s teeth, try these other options. Consider using oral rinses made especially for dogs. You can also purchase special dental treats. Avoid real bones since they result to gastrointestinal upset and can cause tooth fractures.

The most important tip is to make sure you keep up with vet exams. A professional dental cleaning may be recommended from time to time that involves the use of general anesthesia. During this procedure, your dog’s teeth and gums will be examined closely for problems. The teeth will then be scaled and polished. If dental problems are noted, tooth extractions will be necessary. Alternatively, you may be referred to a veterinary dentist for specialty procedures. Some dogs need dental cleanings one or more times per year in general. Be certain to follow your vet’s recommendations. Don’t forget that dental care begins at home that makes all the difference.

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