| 107barney | 07-21-2015 10:47 AM |
Quote:
Originally Posted by jshade
(Post 4577183)
I have a new 4/12 year old Yorkie who had his checkup with the vet yesterday. The vet was surprised by the condition of his teeth and because of their condition, thought he was much older. The breeder that sold him to me also owns a grooming business. She has someone come once a year to clean teeth without anesthesia. My vet says as long as he is getting neutered, he would clean them more thoroughly than this other person can. He was sceptical about teeth cleaning without anesthetic. I'm wondering if anyone has experience with teeth care and what you do. His teeth are pretty bad. Thanks!
| Your vet is right to be skeptical about non-anesthetic cleanings. The American College of Veterinary Dentistry has a position paper advising against cleanings done that way. I personally would have your vet clean the teeth while under the anesthesia, preferably do xrays of the oral cavity, and remove any diseased teeth.
It's not unusual for some yorkies to have very bad teeth. My 4 yo Winston has teeth that are prone to tartar buildup. I brush his teeth every single day, and use a water additive. He's had four professional cleanings already and will probably need to go every year. Another one of my dogs is 15 and he has had only 2 cleanings in his whole life. At his most recent vet visit, my vet was shocked that a dog that old had such clean teeth. We were thrilled to hear that as old man Barney is no longer able to be under anesthesia due to a severely enlarged heart.
I would get your pup used to brushing his teeth every day so that when he has them cleaned, you'll have a fresh start at trying to keep up w/ good home care. | 