Just as in humans, your dog's oral health can impact his overall health. It's important to monitor your dog's oral health in order to prevent, and catch any oral health concerns early on. Get Regular Oral Care From A Veterinarian Your dog should get a check-up from the veterinarian at least once a year. Part of this checkup should include an oral exam. During the exam, the veterinarian will check for any signs of tarter or plaque build up along the base of the gums and on the teeth. If your veterinarian is concerned about any type of build up, he may recommend a thorough cleaning, similar to the teeth cleanings done for humans.
Brush Your Dog's Teeth Brushing your dog's teeth will not only help keep their teeth clean, but it will help you, as your dog's owner, become familiar with what is and isn't normal for your dog's oral area. You'll be more aware of any differences in the odor of their breath or the appearance of their teeth, gums and tongue. There are specialty toothbrushes available for dogs of all sizes and if you're unsure what to get, consult with your dog's veterinarian.
Schedule Regular Teeth Cleanings Depending on your specific dog, you may want to schedule a teeth cleaning once a year; sometimes as often as every six months if your dog is especially prone to plaque and tarter build up, or if you have a difficult time brushing your dog's teeth. Most veterinarians will conduct these cleanings while your dog is sedated or under anesthesia.
Feed Your Dog Specialty Treats amp; Food There are specialty treats and foods available on the market that are proven to help promote oral health in dogs. Feeding your dog these types of treats and foods may help ensure they continue to have good oral health. Be sure to follow the instructions on the bag to ensure you aren't giving your dog too much of the treat or food, as these foods may contain things that shouldn't be ingested in large quantities.
Be Observant Unfortunately, your dog can't come tell you when something is wrong with his mouth. Be observant. Watch for changes in eating behaviors, or any signs of pain or discomfort in the oral area. You know your dog better than anyone else does, so be on the lookout for any behaviors that seem abnormal or out of character for your dog.