Chihuahuas are one of the most popular dog breeds around, known for their tiny size and surprisingly long lifespans. But like all dogs, their health is directly linked to the health of their teeth.
Unfortunately, Chihuahuas are especially prone to dental problems. Because their mouths are so small, their teeth are often crowded, increasing the risk of decay and disease. This is why proper dental care is so important for this breed.
In this article, we’ll cover the most common dental issues affecting Chihuahuas, what you can do at home to keep your dog’s mouth healthy, what to expect from professional cleanings, and helpful tips for keeping those Chihuahua dog teeth in tip-top shape.
Why are Chihuahuas prone to dental issues?
Chihuahuas are adorable little dogs, but their small size can predispose them to certain health problems. One of the most common is dental disease.
Small mouths and overcrowding
Chihuahuas’ mouths are tiny, but they still have 42 teeth crammed into that small space. That overcrowding can lead to a whole host of dental problems.
When teeth are packed tightly together, it’s easier for plaque and tartar to build up, leading to tooth decay and gum disease. Overcrowding can also damage the enamel, prevent gums from adhering properly to the teeth, and trap food between teeth.
Lifespan and accumulated risk
Chihuahuas tend to live longer than larger breeds. This means that if they don’t get proper dental care, they have more time to develop serious dental problems.
Plaque and tartar accumulate over time, so the longer a Chihuahua lives, the greater the chance that these substances will cause significant damage to their teeth and gums.
How many teeth do Chihuahuas have?
Adult Chihuahuas typically have 42 teeth – 20 on the top and 22 on the bottom. These teeth are divided into four types:
- 12 incisors
- 4 canines
- 16 premolars
- 10 molars
Puppies have fewer teeth than adult dogs. They start losing their puppy teeth around four months, and their adult teeth should be fully grown in by the time they reach seven or eight months old.
Common Chihuahua dental problems
Chihuahuas are prone to dental problems due to their small mouths and teeth that are often crowded together. Here are some of the dental issues you might encounter:
Plaque and tartar buildup
Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth. If it’s not removed by brushing, it hardens into tartar, also called calculus. Plaque and tartar irritate the gums and can lead to inflammation and infection.
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums. If your Chihuahua has gingivitis, you may notice that their gums are red and swollen. Gingivitis is often reversible with professional cleaning and good home care, but it can progress to more serious problems if left untreated.
Periodontal disease (periodontitis)
Periodontal disease is an infection that affects the gums, teeth, and bone that support the teeth. It’s a common problem in Chihuahuas and can lead to tooth loss. In severe cases, periodontal disease can also cause systemic health problems, such as heart and kidney disease.
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, severe dental and periodontal disease can lead to other serious health problems, such as heart and kidney issues.
Retained puppy teeth
Puppy teeth that don’t fall out on their own are called retained puppy teeth. These teeth can cause crowding and misalignment of the adult teeth, leading to further dental problems. Retained puppy teeth should be removed by a veterinarian.
The dangers of untreated dental disease
Dental health problems in dogs can cause a lot more than just bad breath. Periodontal disease can lead to other, more serious health issues, like heart, liver, and kidney problems. If your chihuahua has a bad tooth, it could actually shorten their lifespan if you don’t get it removed.
That’s why it’s so important to take care of your chihuahua’s teeth, and to see a vet as soon as possible if you notice any problems. Sometimes, the only way to prevent further complications is to remove an infected tooth.
At-home Chihuahua teeth cleaning
You can take steps at home to keep your Chihuahua’s teeth clean and their mouth healthy.
Start with the right tools
First, get a toothbrush designed for dogs. You can find them in most pet supply stores. You can choose a finger brush, which fits over your fingertip, or a regular toothbrush with a long handle to reach all the way to the back teeth. You’ll also need to get toothpaste made for dogs. Never use human toothpaste on a dog, as it can contain ingredients like artificial sweeteners that are toxic to dogs. Dog toothpastes also come in flavors that appeal to dogs, so you’re sure to find one your Chihuahua will tolerate, if not enjoy!
Prepare your Chihuahua for brushing
Introduce the toothbrush and toothpaste slowly and gradually. Most dogs, especially at first, won’t understand why you’re sticking your finger or a brush in their mouth. Start by simply touching their mouth and teeth with your finger for a few seconds at a time. Once they seem comfortable with that, add a tiny bit of dog-formulated toothpaste to your finger and let them lick it off.
How to brush Chihuahua teeth
When your Chihuahua seems comfortable with the toothbrush and toothpaste, you can start brushing their teeth. Use a gentle touch and angle the brush at 45 degrees to their teeth. Brush the front, sides, and back teeth, but only brush the outside of the back teeth since most dogs won’t tolerate having the inside surfaces brushed. Spend about 30 seconds to a minute on each side of their mouth. Brushing their gums gently may also help prevent gum disease.
Professional Chihuahua Teeth Cleanings
Like humans, chihuahuas benefit from professional teeth cleaning. A vet or veterinary technician will use specialized tools to scrape away plaque and tartar, polish the teeth, and look for any signs of damage to the teeth and gums.
Because it can be difficult to get a chihuahua to sit still and open wide, these cleanings usually require anesthesia. Anesthesia always carries some risk, but your vet will take precautions to make sure your chihuahua is safe. They’ll perform bloodwork to check organ function and monitor your dog closely during the procedure.
How often should your dog get a professional cleaning? Most vets recommend annual dental checkups. Depending on the state of your dog’s teeth, they might recommend a professional cleaning at that time.
Be warned: professional teeth cleaning for dogs can be expensive. You can expect to pay anywhere from $300 to over $1,000, depending on where you live and the extent of the cleaning needed.
Caring for your Chihuahua’s teeth: Other tips
Besides regular brushing, here are a few other things you can do to protect your Chihuahua’s dental health.
Keep veterinary appointments
Regular vet checkups are essential for your dog’s overall health, and they’re particularly important for spotting and treating dental problems early on.
Start good habits early
The earlier you start prioritizing dental care, the better. Make dental health a priority when your Chihuahua is young, and you’ll significantly reduce the risk of dental issues later in life.
Feed a healthy diet that supports dental health
Choose a dog food that’s appropriate for your Chihuahua’s age and size, and be sure it’s labeled as “complete and balanced” by the American Association of Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). Small dogs should have kibble that’s sized for their smaller mouths.
Consider dental treats
Dental treats can help slow down tartar buildup, but be sure to choose treats that are specifically designed for dental health.
Avoid hard bones and toys
While it might seem natural to give your Chihuahua a bone to chew on, hard bones and toys can actually damage their teeth. Opt for softer, more pliable chew toys instead.
Closing Thoughts
Dental care is absolutely essential for your Chihuahua’s well-being. Because of their small size and unique jaw structure, Chihuahuas are particularly prone to dental problems. But you can take steps to protect your little dog’s teeth and gums.
To keep your Chihuahua’s mouth healthy, brush their teeth regularly, feed them a healthy diet, and take them to the vet for professional dental cleanings. In between cleanings, you can give your dog dental chews and toys to help remove plaque and tartar.
Remember, dental health is a critical part of your Chihuahua’s overall health. By prioritizing dental care, you can prevent serious health problems and improve your dog’s quality of life for years to come.