Tooth Care of Chinese Shar-Pei

The practice of good preventive dentistry is just as important for your Shar-Pei as it is for you, and dogs are susceptible to the same dental diseases as humans: cavities, tartar or plaque buildup, abscesses and gum disease. Tartar and plaque buildup can lead to gingivitis, the swelling and inflammation of the gums, which, if left untreated, can result in infections and even tooth loss. Much of this can be prevented with the proper care.

Many veterinarians recommend regular toothbrushing for dogs. This is best begun at an early age, and there are even canine toothpaste products. However, if you notice tartar building up on your dog’s teeth, you may use a homemade paste of bicarbonate of soda and peroxide. Place this paste on a piece of gauze and rub it on the teeth (gauze provides more abrasiveness than a toothbrush). Yon can sometimes scrape away plaque with your fingernail.
Trying to determine whether your Shar-Pei has any gum problems may be difficult not only for you but also for the veterinarian, because many Shar-Pei have black gums. Nevertheless, a good teeth cleaning every year should ensure that your dog has healthy teeth. Most vets will insist that the dog be anesthetized for this procedure.
Access to safe chew toys will also help keep his teeth clean. By safe, I mean toys that will not break and splinter, for example, hard, sterilized bones, or nylon bones, which become rough and abrasive after a little chewing and help to clean the teeth.
If you notice that your dog has particularly bad breath, ask the veterinarian to check the teeth. He may have an abscessed tooth, tonsillitis or any one of several other health problems causing the foul odor.
Source:thechinesesharpe.com