Dog Dental Care alternatives?

My 4 year old chihuahua terrier has really bad tartar buildup on his teeth which has caused discoloration and halitosis. I've called some local veterinary clinics and the average price to have the dogs teeth cleaned under anesthesia is $200.00 or more. Is there any alternative methods to removing tartar build up on my dogs teeth. I've tried brushing, busy bone dental, and smoked real bones to no avail. I don't want to spend that much money unless is absolutely necessary.

Dog Dental Care alternatives?
It's necessary. Once the teeth get that bad, the animal can be in pain. Just like humans, dogs and cats can develop gingivitis and periodontitis. It is unpleasant for the owner and can be uncomfortable to painful for the animal.


It can be pricey, but it is something that must be done on a periodic basis. Once the teeth are nice and clean, make sure your dog eats a high-quality dry kibble, and such treats like Greenies can help. If you brush your dog's teeth daily with a toothpaste formulated for dogs (never use a human toothpaste!) that will greatly reduce the rate of tartar buildup.
Reply:Do the dental clean up, and feed your dog good raw beef bones.


It does work!


P.S. $ 200 is not cheap, but he is YOUR dog.
Reply:You should probably go ahead and get the cleaning then maintain the teeth through other means.





My groomers will clean the teeth without any medication, but of coarse she can't get under the gums.
Reply:Once the tartar buildup is there, the best solution is to get the vet to clean them. And as soon as that is done, give the dog everyday bone dental stuff--to prevent the tartar from building up. Preventive measures are the best way, which includes brushing. Hope this helps.
Reply:It isn't just tartar on your dog's teeth, but it is calculus. It is like cement on your dog's teeth. It won't come off with brushing, or dental bones, or anything else. It has to be removed with an ultrasonic scaler, which can only be done when a dog is under anesthesia. After you have a dental procedure done, then you can start brushing your dogs teeth to slow down the process of tartar build up, and promote a healthy mouth. But all that calculus on his teeth is collecting bacteria that gets into the dog's blood stream, so it is important for him to have a dental. Good Luck with your pup. If you start brushing his teeth daily after you get it done it will keep his mouth healthy, and you won't have to come back for another dental for a while, or hopefully never.
Reply:get the dog's teeth cleaned. Infections in the teeth or gums can shorten your dog's life.


Vets now have some options to help you keep your dog's teeth clean after the professional cleaning. Be sure to talk to them about it. Your first step, though, is getting his teeth clean. Then you can keep them that way.

Cosmetic