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 Your Labradors Teeth
Have you ever stopped and wondered "Should I be cleaning my Labradors teeth?" The answer to this is yes, and it's something that's not to be missed. Here at Labrador Forums, we have put together a helpful guide to looking after your labradors teeth.
Teeth & Common Doggie Problems
As our Labradors are so companionable, they are often dubbed 'mans best friends'. But our dogs also share many other characteristics with their owners, including teeth problems. Your labrador can also have a tendency towards developing gingivitis (gum disease) as they age. Gingivitis has also been seen in dogs as young as three, but with a good dental hygiene regime, you can prevent its development.
Two other common problems dogs with poor hygiene have, are loose and abscess teeth. Studies show that 98% of dogs with bad breath are suffering from periodontal disease, a result of plaque build up. Dogs do not normally get cavities, but they are prone to developing a brown substance called 'calculus' around their gums. Calculus, laden with bacteria, can eventually cause your labradors teeth to recede, exposing the root. Although antibiotics can suppress gum infection, only tartar and plaque removal can prevent infection from reoccurring. The chances are, if your dog has bad breath, there is a problem with his teeth.
Teeth Development
Your puppy will have a set of sharp puppy teeth except for Molars when he arrives as you will probably find out! Between the ages of 12 weeks and 6 months he will gradually shed his puppy teeth, and cut his permanent, adult teeth. The first permanent teeth to come through are usually the two centre teeth on the top jaw, and the last are the big corner or canine teeth in the top and bottom jaw. Most puppies change their teeth and feel very little discomfort, but occasionally there may be some soreness or bleeding.
The average dog's mouth has 44 teeth. There are usually 22 on the top and 22 on the bottom. These teeth are divided into 8 upper and 6 lower incisors, 4 canines, 16 premolars, and 4 upper and 6 lower molars.
How To Clean Your Dogs Teeth
To make sure your Labrador doesn\'t suffer from any tooth related problems, their teeth should be cleaned at least once a week. Giving them tartar control biscuits, bones and dry dog food, is also a good way of helping to keep the teeth healthy.
Brushing your dog's teeth is supposed to be easier than brushing your own, and is really not as hard as it sounds, if you have the right supplies.
Here Goes!
Ok, now you will need some doggie toothpaste and a toothbrush. Always use specially formulated dog toothpaste.Position yourself and your dog, so that you can have easy access to your dog's teeth.Let your dog taste the toothpaste before attempting to brush his teeth. Allow him to lick the toothpaste off the brush. Once he has now tasted the toothpaste, re-apply the paste.When he is relaxed, gently pull back his lips and cheeks to gain access to the premolars and molars.Start brushing his teeth in a circular motion, much like you would brush your own, and be sure to brush where the tooth meets the gumline. Don't forget to get the very back teeth, where teeth problems are most likely to develop.It is important to keep your dog calm and relaxed by praising him and stroking his neck area.Although the act of brushing your dogs teeth can be initially daunting, it becomes easier with practise and routine.
Well Done- you dog is now on its way to clean, healthy teeth!
Question & Answers
Q) Why can't I use human toothpaste on my dog?
A) Because dogs do not spit out the paste, like humans do, and human tooth paste is not edible. Some human toothpastes contain detergents which can irritate your dog's stomach, and large quantities of ingested fluoride can upset their stomachs. Your dog will definitely swallow whatever you use to clean his teeth. You can purchase edible toothpaste for dogs from most pet stores, and from your vet. Try to find one your dog will like, with a nice beefy or chicken flavour.
That way, your dog will more likely let you brush his teeth. |
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