As tartar accumulates it can work its way under the gums and cause painful infections and gum disease. This goes on in the mouths of dogs just like it does in people. You brush your teeth every day, probably three times. What does your dog do?

Teeth Brushing For Dogs

Talk to your Vet and he or she will probably recommend that you try to brush you dog's teeth at least a couple of times a week to keep the buildup of tartar at a minimum. You can find specially designed toothbrushes and toothpaste just for dogs at most pet supply stores.

Remember that a dog's sense of taste and smell is far more acute than that of a human and the zesty, tingly, mint taste of toothpastes for people will be extremely awful to a dog. Try brushing Rover's teeth with Crest just once and it will likely be the last time he lets you anywhere near him with a toothbrush. Use the specially designed doggie toothpaste.

Dental Chew

Some people don't have the time or patience to brush their dogs' teeth on a regular basis. If you're one of these, you'll want to care for Chopper's choppers in another way. A dog's natural tendency to chew is a built-in dental care mechanism. Dog biscuits break into small chunks when chewed and rub against the teeth, providing a cleaning service.

There's no substitute for brushing your dog's teeth as part of his dental care, but if you can't do that, make sure he gets some sort of crunchy dog biscuit on a regular basis.

Mouth Diseases in Dogs

Dogs without access to proper dental care or crunchy teeth cleaning foods will run the risk of several types of mouth disease. These can be as mild as gingivitis (a gum disease that results in swollen, inflamed gums) and as serious as a bacterial infection that may spread through the dog's bloodstream causing damage to vital organs. You owe it to yourself and your dog to take care of his teeth.

Canine Dentistry

Dental services are available for dogs, just as they are for people. A dog's teeth can be filled, capped, and extracted if necessary, just like a human's. The best course of action, however, is to avoid the need for such services by properly caring for your dog's teeth.

If you can possibly avoid the unnecessary pain and discomfort for your friend, you should do so. Preventative dental care can save you money as well since most canine dental procedures can be quite costly.