My late senior, Katy, did not have plaque issues.
I understand that brushing helps prevent buildup, but it isn't considered sufficient to eradicate existing buildup.
Likely you won't know how serious things are until the vet observes the x-rays and then performs the cleaning. Depending on what is learned, often from the x-ray, the vet may need to extract some teeth.
Were I in your shoes, I probably wouldn't begin a brushing regiment until after the dental cleaning. Yorkies are famous for masking pain--if there is any existing infection, tooth brushing could be very painful. I wouldn't want to risk my pup associating brushing with lots of pain. (I'm sure it is awkward enough for them in the beginning.)
After the dental, your vet can advise you on whether to begin brushing right away, or to wait a short period while the gum line heals up. |