Dog Dental Cleaning: When Ignoring Teeth Affects the Heart
The Mouth Connects to the Whole Body
Bacteria naturally live in a dog’s mouth, but problems arise when plaque is allowed to build up along the gum line. Over time, plaque hardens into tartar, worsening the condition. Gum inflammation begins subtly, and infection can develop without obvious signs. If left untreated, this process eventually leads to periodontal disease.
When gum tissue becomes damaged, bacteria can enter the bloodstream and travel throughout the body, affecting vital organs such as the heart, liver, and kidneys. This is why a dog dental cleaning is so important for dogs—it helps prevent harmful bacteria from spreading beyond the mouth and causing serious health issues.
Heart Problems Linked to Poor Oral Health
Bacteria traveling to the heart might stick to valves or nearby tissue. Infection follows, sparking swelling – this is endocarditis. Whilst not all dogs with poor oral health develop heart disease, poor oral health can significantly increase the risk of heart problems in both healthy and unwell pets.
When a dog already has heart issues, poor oral health can be a real problem. When a pet chews their food they will push bacteria up into their gums. The gums have a rich blood supply and it is very easy for the bacteria to find their way into the blood vessels and “float” downstream into the Heart.
If bacteria lodge in the heart valves, white blood cells will be attracted to fight them and this will set up an acute inflammatory condition called endocarditis which can be fatal in animals with pre existing heart disease.
This is why it is so important to maintain your dog dental cleaning, especially when they have an underlying heart condition.
Signs to look out for when it comes to dental disease
Dental disease is often a slowly progressing disease. It tends to creep up on your pet.
It is vital to keep an eye out for the following symptoms:
- Persistent bad breath
- Red or bleeding gums
- Yellow or brown buildup on teeth
- Food slipping out, or favoring just one side when chewing
- Persistent pawing at the mouth
- Excessive salivation
If you are noticing any of these signs on a regular basis, we would recommend that you see one of our Vets as soon as possible.
Supporting Your Dog’s Health Through All Life Stages
Dental care starts right from the start. Its important to get your puppy onto a good quality dental prevention regimen right from the outset. Get them used to their mouth being handled and try and encourage them to accept brushing of their teeth as this is the best way to slow down the build-up of plaque. Build on this platform and maintain it throughout your pet’s life. Ensure your pet gets regular checks of their teeth when they are at the Vet. A Vet will identify if your pet has the start of periodontal disease and will advise you on when it is time for a professional clean.
Worried about how your dog’s teeth are holding up? The staff at Balmain Vet Hospital know what to look for. Whether it’s a full checkup or a proper clean, they take care of Canines at all ages. Balmain Vet run free dental checks ALL year round! Every month is dental month for us, that’s how important we believe dental health is to the wellbeing of your pet.
You might want to peek at their site first. Or just head straight to the Contact Us section if you would like to book a free dental check for your pet.
