Just as humans need to regularly remove plaque from their teeth, so, too, do dogs. If left untreated, oral health issues can make a dog vulnerable to a number of secondary illnesses, some of which pose a serious threat to their health and even to their life. Below are three that veterinarians see most often.

Health Consequences of Neglecting a Dog's Teeth

1. Heart Problems

Bacteria left in a dog's mouth can enter their bloodstream, where it is pumped through the heart and circulated through the rest of the body. At first, the cardiac changes can be microscopic. But over time, they can take a substantial toll on the heart. They might lead to endocarditis—an inflammation of the heart lining—or to an infection of the heart valves.

2. Kidney Issues

When mouth bacteria travels to a dog's kidneys, it can impair the functioning of the glomerulus membranes. This prevents the kidneys from being able to filter the blood and transform it into urine. When the kidneys can't filter properly, toxins will continue to build up in the dog's system, potentially leading to sepsis or even death.

3. Broken Jaw

In some instances, veterinarians will see dogs whose jaws have broken as a result of tooth decay. Once plaque has built up and weakened the bone, a relatively small motion can be all that it takes to injure it. This is more common in smaller dogs who don't have a lot of jawbone to begin with.  

To help prevent any of these issues, have your dog's teeth professionally cleaned by a veterinarian every six months to one year. In between visits, maintain regular at-home brushings at least three times per week. Greatwood Animal Hospital offers a variety of veterinary services, including dental care, to the Fort Bend County, TX, region. Their offerings include low-cost vaccinations, pet boarding, and a fully stocked pharmacy. Call (281) 342-7770 or visit them online to make an appointment with a veterinarian today.