Oral disease is one of the most overlooked health problems in pets. Building tartar leads to gum inflammation, receding tissues, pain and tooth loss - and chronic inflammation in the mouth burdens the whole body, including the heart, kidneys and liver. Bad breath is not "normal for a dog"; it is usually the first symptom.
Signs of dental trouble
- strong, unpleasant breath,
- red or bleeding gums, visible tartar,
- reluctance to chew, preferring soft food,
- drooling or chewing carefully on one side.
Visible tartar is only the tip of the problem - most damage happens below the gum line, out of sight.
Brushing at home, step by step
The most effective prevention is regular tooth brushing - ideally daily. Use only pet toothpaste (human paste is harmful to animals) and a soft brush or finger brush. Build up gradually: first let your pet lick the paste, then touch the teeth, until full brushing is accepted. Patience and rewards work; many dogs and cats come to accept the ritual. Dental chews and special diets help, but they do not replace brushing.
Professional cleaning - is anaesthesia safe?
When tartar is established, we perform professional scaling and polishing under short anaesthesia. Anaesthesia worries many owners, yet it is what allows thorough cleaning below the gum line, assessment of every tooth, and a stress-free, pain-free procedure. Before the procedure we assess the patient's health, run blood tests for older animals, and monitor throughout. So-called "anaesthesia-free scaling" cannot clean beneath the gums and gives a false sense of security.
Regular home care means fewer procedures and a healthier pet overall. We look after your pet's teeth at MultiVet in Lutynia near Wrocław - from check-ups to dental procedures.