Shih Tzu Teeth Rotting: Understanding the Risks and Solutions

Shih Tzus are prone to tooth decay due to their small jaw size and crowded teeth, which can lead to difficulty cleaning and a higher risk of cavities.

Their teeth are also more susceptible to tartar buildup, which can cause gum disease and tooth loss if left untreated.

One of the main causes of tooth decay in Shih Tzus is a diet high in sugars and carbohydrates, which can lead to an overgrowth of bacteria in the mouth.

Regular dental care is essential to prevent tooth rotting in Shih Tzus, including daily brushing and dental check-ups every six months.

Curious to learn more? Check out: Shih Tzu Teeth

Daily brushing with a veterinarian-recommended dog toothpaste significantly decreases the risk of rotten teeth in dogs, but it doesn't eliminate the risk. Breed genetics and conformation also contribute to the risk of rotten teeth in dogs.

Some breeds, such as Shih Tzus, are more prone to dental disease due to their crowded mouths and short faces. Even daily brushing may not be enough to prevent dental disease in these breeds.

You might like: Shih Tzu Teeth Issues

To prevent periodontal disease, regular dental appointments with a vet are essential, along with at-home oral care routines and dental treats. You can prevent the disease by being proactive with your dog's oral health, just like you would with your own oral health.

Here are some common signs of periodontal disease in dogs:

Remember, neglecting annual dental cleaning can put your dog at risk of developing gingivitis, periodontal disease, bad breath, and in severe cases pain, tooth decay and tooth loss.

Dogs can develop rotten teeth due to a variety of factors.

Poor nutrition and diet can play a role in the development of the plaque and bacteria that eventually cause periodontal disease.

Bacteria builds up in a dog's mouth and can eventually develop into plaque, which when combined with other minerals, hardens within two to three days.

Lack of dental hygiene and oral care is the most common cause of rotten dog teeth.

Regularly brushing your dog's teeth with a dog toothpaste recommended by a vet goes a long way toward preventing dental disease.

Some breeds such as Dachshunds and Yorkies are more susceptible to rotten teeth due to their dental genetics.

Breed genetics and conformation also contribute to the risk of rotten teeth in dogs.

Dogs with crowded teeth, such as those with brachycephalic or malocclusion, are at a higher risk of developing dental disease.

Preventing tooth decay in dogs is crucial for their overall health. Daily brushing is the most effective way to prevent tooth decay in dogs, and using an angled toothbrush specifically designed for dogs can make a big difference.

Toothpaste for humans is toxic to dogs, so it's essential to use dog-friendly toothpaste in flavors that your dog will enjoy. However, not all dogs take to toothbrushing right away, so you may need to consult your veterinarian or local dog trainer for methods to get your pup on board.

In addition to daily brushing, there are other products designed to help you sneak good dental care into your dog's daily activities without them even noticing. Look for specially designed dental treats that help scrape away plaque and tartar buildup from your dog's teeth and water additives that can help slow the development of dental diseases like gingivitis.

Some products to avoid include hard bones, antlers, and firm toys, which can fracture teeth. Instead, look for dog food that is specifically formulated to fight plaque and tartar, like Hill's Prescription Diet t/d dry dog food or Hill's Science Diet Oral Care.

To ensure you're using the right products, look for the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal of approval, which means the manufacturer has proven the product meets VOHC specifications for plaque and tartar reduction in dogs.

Regular check-ups with a veterinarian are also essential, as they can look at your dog's teeth and notice early signs of dental disease.

Curious to learn more? Check out: What to Feed a Shih Tzu

Bad breath, or halitosis, is often the first sign of rotten teeth in Shih Tzus, caused by bacteria building up in the mouth.

Discolored teeth are another obvious sign of dental disease, with brown or yellow discoloration being a common indicator.

Bleeding from the mouth, gums, or eyes can be a sign of advanced dental disease in Shih Tzus.

Some common symptoms of rotten teeth in Shih Tzus include loose teeth, missing or broken teeth, and swollen areas of the face.

Here are some common signs and symptoms of rotten teeth in Shih Tzus:

In the early stages of periodontal disease, Shih Tzus may bleed from their gums on chew toys or develop very red inflamed gums after playing with those toys.

As dental disease progresses, Shih Tzus may become more aggressive or reclusive due to their aching gums.

In severe cases, Shih Tzus may exhibit signs of shyness like refusing to have their heads touched due to mouth pain.

It's essential to catch dental disease early to prevent more severe health issues, including heart disease when bacteria from the mouth enter the bloodstream and attach to the arteries around the heart.

Shih Tzus are prone to tooth decay and gum disease, and it's essential to take proactive steps to prevent and treat these issues.

Regular dental care is crucial to prevent tooth decay in Shih Tzus. Daily brushing with a dog-friendly toothpaste and an angled toothbrush can make a big difference.

Investing in the right teeth-cleaning tools can make a big difference in your Shih Tzu's oral health. Toothpaste for humans can be toxic to your pet, so be sure to use dog-friendly toothpaste.

Not all dogs take to toothbrushing right away, so it's essential to establish a routine that sticks. If every brushing session is a battle, consider talking to your veterinarian or local dog trainer about methods to get your pup on board.

In addition to daily brushing, there are other products designed to help you sneak good dental care into your dog's daily activities without them even noticing. Look for specially designed dental treats that help scrape away plaque and tartar buildup from your dog's teeth and water additives that can help slow the development of dental diseases like gingivitis.

The general rule of thumb is that anything you can't indent with your fingernail could damage dog teeth, so be sure to choose the right toys and chews for your Shih Tzu.

Here are some estimated costs for dog dental cleaning:

Early treatment of periodontal disease may be able to save your pet's teeth, so be sure to get your Shih Tzu examined by a veterinarian at least once or twice a year for periodontal disease.

Recovery from gum disease in Shih Tzus typically takes a few days to a week, depending on the extent of the treatment.

Pets who have undergone straightforward cleanings and scaling procedures can usually return to normal the following day.

If your Shih Tzu requires extractions or major surgeries, it may take three to five days to fully recover.

During this time, it's essential to soften their food so they can eat comfortably.

For advanced stages of periodontal disease, antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, and pain relief medication may be necessary, along with regular follow-up veterinary visits.

After a teeth cleaning, your Shih Tzu may seem drowsy and have a reduced appetite, which should subside within 24-48 hours.

Recovery from a teeth cleaning can take a few hours to a day or two, depending on your dog's individual response to the anesthetic. They may seem drowsy and have a reduced appetite during this time.

For straightforward cleaning and scaling procedures, your dog should be back to normal the following day. However, if extractions or major surgeries are required, recovery can take three to five days.

Antibiotics may be prescribed for pets with advanced stages of periodontal disease to prevent infections. These stages typically require more extensive treatment and follow-up care.

Routine follow-up veterinary visits are crucial for pets with stages three and four of periodontal disease. This ensures that any potential complications are caught early and addressed promptly.

Gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease, can be reversed because the inflammation doesn't impact the tooth's surrounding structure.

However, once the infection becomes severe and causes structural damage in Stages 2 and 3, periodontal disease can't be reversed.

Dental care is essential for your Shih Tzu's overall health, and it's crucial to start early.

Regular dental exams by your veterinarian are a must, especially for breeds prone to periodontal disease like Shih Tzus. This includes annual exams, and possibly more frequent ones every six months if your dog is at risk.

Brushing your Shih Tzu's teeth at home is also vital. Use a toothbrush and toothpaste specifically designed for canines, and follow your vet's instructions.

Preventing plaque formation is key, and topical treatments can be administered to the teeth and gums. However, this must be done consistently and daily.

A lack of dental hygiene and oral care is the most common cause of dental disease in dogs. Regular brushing with dog toothpaste recommended by a vet can go a long way in preventing dental disease.

Here are some common signs of dental disease in dogs:

These symptoms can be a sign of more serious issues like gingivitis, periodontal disease, and even heart disease.

Rotten dog teeth can be a real concern for Shih Tzu owners, and it's essential to know what to look out for.

A dog's tooth consists of a crown, a pulp, and a root, just like human teeth. The pulp is the living part of the tooth, and it's the part that becomes very painful when teeth are rotten.

Bad breath is often one of the first signs of tooth decay in dogs. If your Shih Tzu has persistent bad breath, it's worth investigating further.

Some rotten teeth are covered in a thick layer of gray-brown-green plaque, also known as calculus. This is usually worst on the teeth in the back of the mouth, where it's most difficult to see.

Exposure of the roots due to decay of the gingiva, jaw bone, and structures that attach the tooth to the bone is another sign of periodontal disease. This can be seen as retraction of the gum line, making the tooth appear longer than it used to.

Here are some signs of rotten teeth to watch out for: