Ask Your Pet Question. Pet Experts Answer You ASAP.

(Not a Pet Question?)

Hi my dog has a little bit of tartar on one of ...

Sent to Pet Experts July 02 05:45 AM

Hi my dog has a little bit of tartar on one of his back molars. Does that mean he needs a cleaning asap. I just started brushing his teeth and I didn''t know if tartar could spead or stay the same as long as i keep brushing???

 

Optional Information:
Age: 3; Male; Breed: Dachshund

Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Status:  Closed   Value: $9
Answer
July 2 8:20 AM (2 hours and 35 minutes and 29 seconds later)
         
ACCEPTEDCheck Mark
Thanks for the question.

Lots of dogs will have a little bit of tartar on their teeth particularly the back molars and it often does not mean a lot but it is better removed before more forms and it becomes a problem.

Brushing alone may not shift the existing tartar but it will stop any more forming. The best way to remove the tartar is to gently scrape it away with a metal object such as a ladies nail file. Once the tartar is removed and the teeth are white again regular brushing will keep them in good condition and prevent any more tartar forming.

Some dogs however will not tolerate you scraping away the tartar or cleaning the teeth, in that case it becomes a job for your vet.

Here is a link to a web page which shows a dog dental scraper but a ladies metal nail file will work just as well : http://www.amazon.com/Millers-Forge-Tartar-Scraper-Double/dp/B0002ZS442

If I can advise you further please get back in touch.

Scott Nimmo BVMS

As I cannot examine your animals my advice is given strictly on the basis that it is for your interest and education only. Please consult your vet if you have any concerns about your pet's health.
Picture
Scott Nimmo BVMS -- Veterinarian -- 98% Positive Feedback on 162 Pet Accepts
I have 28 years experience in all aspects of small animal medicine and surgery.
Reply
July 2 12:23 PM (4 hours and 2 minutes and 54 seconds later)
         
Hi, must you brush a dogs teeth? I was wondering if you have ever heard of Maxi/guard oral cleansing gel for dogs. I found it on a few vet websits. Have you heard of this product? It said it works very well at keeping plaque from forming even if you do not brush on a regular basis. But of course it is best along with brushing. I am just looking for alternatives to brushing ALL the time!
Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Answer
July 3 3:32 AM (15 hours and 9 minutes and 19 seconds later)
         
THIS ANSWER IS LOCKED!
You can view this answer by clicking here to Register or Login and paying $3.
Picture
Scott Nimmo BVMS -- Veterinarian -- 98% Positive Feedback on 162 Pet Accepts
I have 28 years experience in all aspects of small animal medicine and surgery.
Think you can answer this question?
Login or Become an Expert

Related Answers

 

DISCLAIMER: You acknowledge that any information you may obtain from individuals you contact through use of the JustAnswer service comes from those individuals, not from JustAnswer, and that JustAnswer is not in any way responsible for any of the information these third parties may supply. The site and services are provided "as is" with no warranty and no representations are made regarding the qualification of an Expert. Responses and comments on JustAnswer are for general information and are not intended to substitute for informed professional advice (such as medical, legal, investment or accounting) and do not establish a professional-client relationship. JustAnswer is not intended or designed to address EMERGENCY QUESTIONS which should be directed immediately by telephone or in-person to qualified professionals. Please carefully read the Terms of Service.

JustAnswer > Pet Health