There are many different ways to minimize the plaque and tartar buildup that leads to more advanced disease. First of all, if your dog has already formed significant tartar buildup or gingivitis, it will probably be necessary to start with a thorough, professional cleaning. During a dental cleaning , your veterinarian will anesthetize your greyhound. It is a good idea to talk to your veterinarian beforehand about greyhound's special anesthetic sensitivities . While under anesthesia, your greyhound's teeth will be scaled to remove the tartar buildup and then polished clean.
Special attention is given to cleaning the gingival sulcus.
By understanding the process that leads to periodontal disease, it is not difficult to figure out that it all starts with a little plaque on the teeth. Keeping your greyhound's plaque formation to a minimum is easier than you might think. Many commercial toothpastes and brushes are available at pet stores or veterinary clinics. Although scientific information on their effectiveness is generally difficult to confirm, most dogs enjoy chewing on them, and many people swear by them. A small bioadhesive patch is now available to slowly release an antiseptic to cleanse the oral cavity and has shown promise in controlling some cases of periodontal disease.