My 4 pound yorkie had dental done every year starting at age one. I had two other yorkies also, and my tiny one needed it done twice a year. The cleanings really helped keep their teeth in decent shape, and it also made a big difference in their overall health. The yorkie I had before them had a lot of problems with her teeth, and she had dentals, but not as often.
Ashley is the only one that I have left, and she is almost 17. We've had to have some teeth pulled, because she can no longer have her teeth cleaned as often. She has a heart condition, so we only put her under anesthesia when it is absolutely necessary. We've done it 3 times in the past 7 years when she has had infections.
My vet mixes conventional and holistic medicine, and people travel distances to see him. He is absolutely amazing! I always follow his advice on things, but I haven't been able to bring myself to do what he suggested with the teeth. He told me to give her raw chicken wings to chew on. He said if they were raw, she wouldn't be able to chew the bones (they wouldn't be brittle, which would cause problems) and chewing on the muscle in the chicken wings would polish up her teeth. He told me I would never have a problem with her teeth if I did that. I'm sure he's right about this, but it's too scary for me. Leba III, a spray, is also supposed to help prevent gum disease. I hope Timmy feels better soon. You both have been through an ordeal, and you are so lucky to have each other! |