Looking after your dog’s teeth at home is really important, even if you get their teeth cleaned by a veterinarian.
After your dog’s teeth have been cleaned, the time it takes for disease to re-establish is surprisingly quick.
Even after a clean, there are still bacteria present in your pet’s mouth. The normal bacteria and proteins in the saliva very quickly form a film called a pellicle. This is what we would describe as that fury feeling!
As quickly as 48 hours after returning home, the pellicle starts to mature into a biofilm that contains some nasty bacteria. This biofilm is called plaque and it is the cause of periodontal (gum) disease which is present in 90% of dogs.
In as little as TWO WEEKS, your dog’s immune system starts trying to fight the bacteria, with the gums begining to redden and become swollen or inflamed. This is gingivitis and the first stage of disease.
Looking after your pet’s teeth is important to keep them happy and healthy. Can you imagine how your teeth would be if you never brushed them and your only care was to go to a dentist once a year for a clean?