What happens when a dog has dental calculus

In the warm moments spent with dogs, we always hope that they can always be full of vitality and healthy without worries. However, sometimes the health problems of dogs are like "little monsters" hidden in the dark, which can inadvertently emerge. Among them, dental calculus is an easily overlooked but potentially troublesome health hazard for dogs. What happens when a dog has dental calculus? This question is worth delving into for every dog lover.

The formation process of dental calculus

Dogs' dental calculus does not form overnight. After dogs eat, food residue will remain on the surface of their teeth and in the gaps between their gums. Bacteria in the mouth will quickly accumulate on these residues, forming a sticky film called dental plaque. Over time, bacteria in dental plaque will interact with minerals in saliva, gradually mineralizing and ultimately forming hard dental calculus.

Imagine that food residues that we don't usually care about slowly "spoil" in a dog's mouth and become the "raw material" for dental calculus. And our daily negligence may have created conditions for the formation of dental calculus, which makes people feel guilty and heartbroken.

Initial symptoms and warnings

In the early stages of dental calculus formation, dogs may experience some less obvious symptoms. For example, bad breath will gradually worsen, and the originally fresh breath will become unbearable. This is because bacteria in dental plaque and tartar continue to multiply, decomposing food residues and producing unpleasant odors. Upon careful observation, yellow or brown spots may appear on the surface of the dog's teeth, which is an early sign of dental calculus.

At this point, the dog's gums may also become slightly swollen and prone to bleeding. When we touch a dog's mouth or brush their teeth, the dog may show resistance and even whimper softly due to pain. These seemingly small changes are actually health warnings from dogs, reminding us to pay attention to their oral health.

Hazards after development

Oral pain and difficulty eating:

As dental calculus accumulates and worsens, dogs' mouths will suffer more and more pain. Dental calculus can stimulate the gums, causing gingivitis, resulting in swollen and painful gums. When dogs are eating, the contact between food and teeth and gums can make the pain more pronounced, which may cause them to lose appetite or even refuse to eat. Watching the once greedy dog remain indifferent to the delicious food, how anxious our hearts must be.

Loose and falling teeth:

Severe dental calculus can damage the supporting tissue around the teeth, leading to gradual loosening of the teeth. When teeth become loose to a certain extent, they will fall out. Teeth are crucial for dogs, as they not only affect their eating habits but also impact their chewing and digestive functions. Dogs that have lost their teeth will find it very difficult to chew food properly, which can affect the absorption of nutrients and gradually weaken their bodies.

Causing systemic diseases:

The oral cavity is a "breeding ground" for bacteria. When dental calculus is severe, bacteria in the oral cavity will grow in large numbers and enter other parts of the dog's body through blood circulation. This may trigger a series of systemic diseases, such as heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease, etc. These diseases not only cause immense pain to dogs, but also pose a serious threat to their life and health. Originally lively and cute dogs may become lethargic due to these diseases, and their lives are quietly passing by, which is a pain that every owner cannot bear.

The impact on dog life and owner psychology

Dogs with dental calculus will experience a significant decline in their quality of life. The originally happy playtime may no longer be enjoyable due to oral pain. Dogs are no longer as energetic as before, becoming quiet and isolated, and losing interest in the things around them.

As owners, watching our dog suffer from dental calculus, our hearts are filled with guilt and concern. We will blame ourselves for not detecting our dog's problems in a timely manner and not doing a good job in daily oral care. We will search for solutions everywhere, take the dog to the veterinarian, try various oral cleaning products, hoping to help the dog recover as soon as possible.

Getting dental calculus in a dog is not a small matter. It will gradually evolve from an oral problem to a major problem affecting the overall health of dogs. As guardians of dogs, we should always pay attention to their oral health and take preventive measures. Regularly brush your dog's teeth, provide suitable chewing toys, exercise your dog's teeth, and reduce the formation of dental calculus. Once signs of dental calculus are found in dogs, it is important to take them to a veterinarian in a timely manner and take effective treatment measures. Because the health of dogs is our greatest happiness, they give us endless love and companionship, and we should also be careful and patient to protect their health for a lifetime.