Good quality diets and dental care provided by the owner can help slow gingivitis and periodontal disease. Routine dental care involves brushing the dog's teeth with a soft brush and veterinary toothpaste. Human toothpaste contains detergents that will cause gastrointestinal upset and vomiting in dogs that swallow it. Most veterinary pastes come in flavors that help make brushing more enjoyable for a dog.
When tartar has accumulated, the examining veterinarian typically will perform a professional cleaning and polishing of the teeth and gums while the dog is under anesthesia. Preanesthetic tests appropriate for each dog will be recommended prior to the procedure. One of the most important parts of the process is cleaning off the tartar that collects below the gumline. This cannot be accomplished when a dog is awake, even if it is extremely tolerant.
Severe dental disease may require aggressive procedures and dedicated at home dental care if teeth are to be salvaged. If extractions are necessary, the dog will have the benefit of both anesthesia and postoperative pain medications. Retained deciduous teeth should be extracted before misalignment of the permanent teeth has occurred. Some dogs may need treatment by a dental specialist for root canals or orthodontic procedures.
