Causes
Mildly worn teeth in dogs can be an expected age-related change. As dogs age, their teeth naturally wear down from years of chewing and use.
Chewing on hard toys/chews (bones, antlers, hard rubber toys) or abrasive toys (tennis balls) can contribute to excessively worn teeth in dogs. While chewing is a natural behavior for dogs and can help keep their teeth clean and healthy, excessive chewing on hard objects can lead to wear and damage to the teeth.
When dogs chew on hard toys, especially those that are too hard or abrasive, it can cause the outer layer of the teeth, called enamel, to wear down. This can expose the underlying dentin, which is softer and more susceptible to damage. Over time, this can lead to worn teeth, fractures, and other dental issues.
Prevention
To prevent worn teeth due to toys, it is important to choose appropriate chew toys for your dog. Elect for softer toys made of rubber or nylon that are specifically designed for chewing. Avoid giving your dog hard or abrasive objects that can cause excessive wear on their teeth.
Veterinary Dentist in Houston, Texas
We would love to examine your dog’s mouth, discuss oral exam findings, and make recommendations regarding appropriate and inappropriate chews. Give us a call!
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (8/15/2024). Photo by Andrew Pons on Unsplash