What to do if my dog has severe tartar buildup?

If your dog has severe tartar buildup, it is recommended to undergo an ultrasound tooth cleaning surgery at a hospital. This method can thoroughly clean the tartar and is less likely to harm your dog. The polishing process can also make your dog's teeth smooth, reducing the likelihood of bacterial residue. Remember to do a preoperative examination before the surgery.

But if your dog has a special physical condition that prevents it from undergoing anesthesia, you can choose alternatives such as tooth cleaning powders or gel products. Tooth cleaning powders are usually mixed into dog food, while tooth cleaning gels are applied to the tartar surface. After the tartar softens, use a tool to remove it. After cleaning, owners should also maintain their dog's oral hygiene, persist in brushing their teeth, and avoid feeding soft food to prevent tartar buildup.

1. Using cleaning tools such as gels and powders

If your dog is obedient and does not resist tooth cleaning, you can use products like tooth cleaning powders and gels to remove tartar. First, secure your dog's limbs and body. If one person cannot control the dog, seek help from family or friends or use a leash to restrain it.

When using tooth cleaning powders, consult a veterinarian and choose a reliable and effective brand. As the powder needs to be mixed into dog food, be sure to follow the instructions to determine the correct dosage. If you use a tooth cleaning gel, also follow the instructions strictly. Generally, apply the gel to the tartar surface, wait for it to soften, and then use a tool to remove the tartar. Be extra cautious not to hurt your dog. If the owner is unsure of how to operate, bring your dog to a pet hospital for cleaning.

Note that this cleaning method requires long-term persistence and has a slow effect, usually suitable for dogs with less tartar or those who cannot undergo ultrasound cleaning due to health reasons.

1. Ultrasound tooth cleaning

If your dog resistes using cleaning products or has severe tartar that affects its oral health, it's better to undergo surgery, which includes general anesthesia, ultrasound tooth cleaning, and tooth polishing. This method has a good effect and can clean the tartar on the teeth comprehensively and without any dead angles.

Before the surgery, a preoperative examination is necessary, including routine blood tests, blood biochemical tests, and blood coagulation tests. These examinations help determine whether your dog's blood cells and liver and kidney functions are normal. Only when these indicators are satisfactory can the dog undergo the ultrasound tooth cleaning surgery. Additionally, owners need to fasting their dogs for six hours before surgery and resume feeding four hours after the procedure.

1. Post-cleaning precautions

Whether it's using cleaning products or undergoing ultrasound tooth cleaning, it's not a one-time solution. Owners need to pay more attention to cleaning their dog's teeth to prevent tartar buildup. After cleaning, it's best to brush your dog's teeth daily or feed tooth cleaning powders. Choose harder food when feeding, and avoid canned or soft food. You can also add tooth cleaning water to your dog's drinking water to prevent tartar or plaque buildup.