Shih Tzu Teeth Problems and Solutions Explained

Shih Tzus are prone to dental problems due to their small jaw size and crowded teeth, which can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.

Their teeth are also more susceptible to tartar buildup, which can cause bad breath, yellowing teeth, and red gums.

Regular brushing is essential to prevent these issues, but Shih Tzus often require more frequent brushing due to their small size and delicate teeth.

A daily brushing routine can help remove tartar and prevent the buildup of bacteria that can cause dental problems.

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Shih Tzus are prone to dental problems due to their small mouths and crowded teeth.

Their teeth can be too close together, out of place, or misshapen, making it essential to brush their teeth daily and have their vet check their mouths for other problems and clean their teeth once a year.

Shih Tzus may also have an underbite or an undershot bite, which can be a problem if it makes it hard for the dog to eat or hurts the soft tissues in its mouth.

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Malocclusion, or underbites and overbites, are common in Shih Tzus, and most times it isn't severe, but sometimes it requires surgical correction.

Crowded teeth are a problem for Shih Tzus, and their teeth often have a different orientation than dogs with bigger mouths, making them more likely to develop dental disease.

Shih Tzus can have problems with plaque and tartar buildup, which can harden into tartar and cause bad breath and gingivitis.

Here are some signs that your Shih Tzu may have a problem in their mouth or gastrointestinal system:

Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is a common problem in Shih Tzus, and it can lead to painful conditions like gingivitis and periodontitis.

Preventing dental problems is crucial, and there are many ways to keep your Shih Tzu's mouth clean, including brushing their teeth thoroughly, using supplementary approaches like sprays and dental chews, and providing dental sticks that reduce plaque and tartar buildup.

Shih Tzus need their teeth brushed daily to maintain good dental health. Regular brushing can help prevent bad breath, tartar buildup, and gum disease.

A good canine toothbrush and toothpaste are essential for brushing your Shih Tzu's teeth. Human toothpaste is not suitable for dogs, as it contains Xylitol and foaming agents that can be harmful.

You can also use dental chews, special dog food, and solutions added to their water to help care for their teeth. However, these options should be viewed as supplements to brushing their teeth.

Here's a quick guide to brushing your Shih Tzu's teeth:

By following these simple tips, you can help keep your Shih Tzu's teeth clean and healthy.

You'll need a good canine toothbrush and a canine toothpaste to keep your Shih Tzu's teeth clean. A regular dog toothbrush can be used, or you can opt for a rubber finger brush that fits over your index finger and has soft knobs that break apart tarter as you rub your finger around the dog's mouth.

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A dog toothbrush is smaller than a human toothbrush and has softer bristles. You can also use a piece of gauze wrapped around your finger or a dental wipe purchased for that purpose.

Dental rinses are available, but they rarely remove all the plaque. A good canine toothbrush and toothpaste are essential, and you might also consider a dental spray for adult dog teeth.

Dog toothpaste is a must, as human toothpaste contains toxic ingredients like xylitol and fluoride that could cause harm. You can find dog toothpaste in many appealing flavors like peanut butter, beef, and chicken.

It's essential to use a toothpaste made for dogs, as it's designed to be safe for them to swallow. A silicone toothbrush can be used on your fingers for a more thorough and comfortable brushing, especially for Shih Tzus.

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Getting your Shih Tzu used to teeth cleaning is a gradual process that requires patience and consistency. Start by letting your puppy sniff the toothbrush and lick the toothpaste off your finger.

It's essential to introduce the toothbrush and toothpaste gradually to avoid stressing your dog. You can start by moving the toothbrush around the house, putting it on the kitchen counter, or near their food bowl. This will help your dog become familiar with the sight and smell of the toothbrush and toothpaste.

Desensitization is key when getting your dog used to teeth cleaning. You can start by touching your dog's teeth and gums without the brush, then gradually introduce the toothbrush. Make sure to praise and reward your dog for tolerating each step.

Here's a step-by-step guide to get your dog used to teeth cleaning:

Remember, every dog is different, and some may take longer than others to get used to teeth cleaning. Be patient and consistent, and with time, your Shih Tzu will learn to tolerate teeth cleaning.

Brushing your Shih Tzu's teeth is essential to prevent tartar and plaque buildup, which can lead to periodontal diseases that affect the liver, heart, and kidneys.

Start with a gentle toothbrush and toothpaste made for dogs, and brush and floss regularly at home. You can also use dental chews to help improve their breath and keep their teeth in good condition.

Consider your Shih Tzu's diet, as a healthy diet with very little sugar can help prevent tooth decay. Feed a complete and balanced diet, or ask your vet about therapeutic dental diets that reduce plaque and tartar buildup.

Give your Shih Tzu safe things to chew on, such as dental chews, for at least 5-10 minutes twice a day to help their mental and dental health. Avoid giving them antlers or bleached bones, as they can break their teeth.

Regular veterinary appointments are crucial to identify dental issues before they become big problems. Even with consistent home dental care, taking your Shih Tzu in for regular check-ups can help prevent serious health issues.

A Shih Tzu will have two sets of teeth throughout their life - 28 temporary baby teeth and 42 permanent adult teeth.

The mouth of an adult Shih Tzu should contain 12 incisors, which are the front teeth used for biting and cutting food.

Regular dental care is crucial for Shih Tzus to prevent tooth decay and gum disease.

A healthy adult Shih Tzu should have 42 permanent adult teeth, which is the same number as big dogs do.

To keep your Shih Tzu's teeth clean, brush them regularly with a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste.

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Feeding a high-quality, health food is an excellent way to keep your Shih Tzu's oral health in check.

Nourishing the body means that teeth will grow stronger and your dog's overall health will benefit greatly. Avoid ingredients like grains, by-products, and meals that are not only unhealthy but stick to your dog's teeth.

Whole foods with natural ingredients often contain enzymes and other supplements that help break down unwanted build-up on teeth.

Poor-quality foods will increase plaque and tartar build-up and keep your pet's dental health and immune system functioning far below their ideal strength.

Even dogs fed natural diets should have their teeth brushed and dental health checked regularly.

Daily brushing is the best thing you can do to increase your dog's dental health. It's a simple habit to get into, and it will pay off in the long run.

To get your Shih Tzu used to the toothbrush, start by moving it around the house, putting it on the kitchen counter, or near their food bowl. This will help them get used to the sight and smell of the toothbrush.

Chew toys, such as the Nylabone Dental Dinosaur Chew, can also help control bad breath and remove sticky tartar and plaque. Look for natural rope fibers that act as floss, or toys with interesting textures that will keep your dog engaged.

For best results, brush your Shih Tzu's teeth every day. If you can't do that, aim to brush every 72 hours, as this is how long it takes plaque to turn into tartar.

Here are some great options for cleaning your Shih Tzu's teeth:

Using the right tools can make a big difference in your Shih Tzu's teeth grooming routine.

Doggy toothpaste is a must-have, and it comes in a variety of flavors that your pup will love. You can choose from peanut butter, beef, and more.

A good toothbrush is also essential, and for toy breeds like Shih Tzus, a finger toothbrush works really well. These toothbrushes are usually made of soft silicon and are gentle on your dog's gums.

If you prefer a bristle brush, opt for one with soft bristles to avoid painful brushing and bleeding gums. Your Shih Tzu will thank you for it.

Chew toys are a great way to keep your Shih Tzu's teeth clean and healthy. They're designed to scrape off plaque and tartar as your dog chews on them, which is especially helpful for puppies who are teething.

Some chew toys are made of natural rope fibers that act as floss, while others have ridges and grooves that help remove sticky tartar and plaque from your dog's teeth. I've found that puppies love toys with a gentle texture, especially those that can be played with in a game of tug-of-war.

You can choose from a variety of materials, including plastic, rubber, nylon, and rawhide. It's a good idea to rotate different types of chew toys to keep your dog interested and prevent boredom.

Here are some popular types of chew toys that are suitable for Shih Tzus:

Remember to always supervise your dog when they have a chew toy within reach, and to choose toys that are the right size for your dog to prevent choking hazards.

Spritz Spray is a quick and easy way to take care of your Shih Tzu's teeth, especially for those who don't like to stay still for oral cleanings.

It's ideal for busy owners who only have a short amount of time to spare, and it's perfect for dogs who just won't stay still for an oral cleaning.

Spritz Spray can be used alone or in between brushings to kill plaque-causing bacteria and make your Shih Tzu's breath smell fresh.

Most sprays are simple to use: they require owners to spritz the teeth and gums.

Dog dental sprays can also remove and prevent tartar and plaque build-up, making them a great addition to your Shih Tzu's oral care routine.

To get the best results, it's best to use Spritz Spray when your Shih Tzu hasn't eaten for a half hour before and after spraying.

To brush your Shih Tzu's teeth effectively, start by lifting their lip to expose their teeth and gums. This helps you get a good look at what you're working with and makes the process less intimidating for your dog.

You can use a finger brush, which is a gentle and non-threatening way to introduce your dog to toothbrushing. This technique is similar to how you would brush your own teeth, and it's a great way to get your dog used to the sensation.

It's unlikely your dog will let you brush the back of their teeth, so focus on the outer surfaces for now. Don't forget to reach the back teeth, though, as tartar can accumulate quickly on these hard-to-reach molars and upper canines.

To make the experience more enjoyable for your dog, talk to them in a reassuring voice and stay calm and cool. This will help them remain relaxed and make the process less stressful for both of you.

Here's a step-by-step guide to brushing your Shih Tzu's teeth:

Ideally, most carpets should be professionally cleaned once a year. However, your carpet cleaner will be your best resource for knowing how often to clean the carpet after they examine it.

The frequency of professional cleaning may vary depending on the level of foot traffic and usage.

Most dental cleanings for Shih Tzus cost between $750 and $1,250. This cost includes a range of services to ensure your Shih Tzu's teeth are thoroughly cleaned.

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Professional cleanings include anesthesia to make the process pain-free. An anesthetic technician and anesthetic monitoring are also part of the procedure.

A complete oral examination under anesthesia is performed to check for any underlying issues. Dental x-rays are taken to identify any problems that can't be seen with the naked eye.

Removal of all plaque and tartar is a crucial part of the cleaning process. This helps prevent gum disease and other oral health issues.

Polishing the teeth is the final step in the cleaning process. This helps remove any remaining plaque and leaves your Shih Tzu's teeth feeling smooth.

Most veterinarians include pre-anesthetic blood work in the cost of dental cleaning to ensure the dog is healthy enough for anesthesia.

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Dental care is crucial for Shih Tzus, and daily brushing is the best thing you can do to increase their dental health.

To help control bad breath, offer your Shih Tzu chew toys like the Nylabone Dental Dinosaur Chew, which massage their teeth and gums, removing sticky tartar and plaque.

Chew bones, especially those designed for edible dental chews, can also reduce tartar and freshen breath. Greenies are a great option, and they come with no preservatives and are gluten-free to help with digestion.

Here are some dental care options for Shih Tzus:

You might think that just like older dogs can't get their teeth cleaned, older cars can't get a good cleaning. But that's not true. Age itself is not a problem for car maintenance.

Older cars may have more wear and tear, but that doesn't mean they can't be cleaned and maintained. Just like how age is not a sickness for dogs, it's not a reason to give up on car maintenance either.

In fact, regular cleaning and maintenance can help extend the life of your car, just like regular dental care can help extend the life of your dog's teeth.

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Shih Tzus are prone to diseases, especially ones that affect their teeth, requiring extra care and attention.

Their long lifespan, up to 10-16 years, means you'll have plenty of time to develop a dental care routine with your Shih Tzu.

To maintain your Shih Tzu's adorable smile, you'll need to brush their teeth regularly, ideally daily, to prevent tartar buildup and gum disease.

Shih Tzus are sweet, gentle, and playful dogs, making them a great companion, but their dental needs should not be neglected.

Regular dental check-ups with your veterinarian are crucial to catch any dental issues early on and prevent massive dental bills.