teeth trimming/filing question

[Jenn]

Hi guys! I was thinking about all the teeth trimming/filing posts I've skimmed through in the past and started coming up with questions. At random, here they are:

1) how do you know when they need to be trimmed/filed? Can I tell by appearance, or by symptoms? I've heard there can be times where no symptoms are exhibited, so how do I know if they need to be checked by a vet?

2) are there chins that go throughout their entire lives without the need for a trim, or is this something all chins need at some point?

3) if all chins need trimmings at some point, is there a way to control the frequency for the filings? Do hay and applesticks/wood chews prevent or control the need for filings? Is the frequency based on genetics?

I guess I'm wondering because Tink is around 5 years old and has never seen a vet. I can take a peek at her teeth and they look nice and orange, and the length seems ok, but I am no pro. She doesn't exhibit any signs that concern me, but I guess my concern is that there could be issues without any signs. Is it best to continue to observe through time and only take to vet if I notice anything, or would you recommend a vet visit every "X" amount of years?

Thanks for your help!

 

[ticklechin]

1) Slow gradual weight loss is a first sign, so make sure weight is taken periodically. Other symptoms are moist lips, mouth swiping after eating, drool, refusal to take something to eat they like, moist eyes, boy chins won't clean the penis and it becomes coated with a white waxy item and needs to be cleaned, choke motion while eating, loss of fur under chin and tops of paws-malo and trimming symptoms are basically the same.

2)Not all chins need to be trimmed, I have several who are approaching 10 years old with no vet visit.

3) Good quality variety of hays, pellets and things to chew along with good genetics will go a long way to prevent teeth issues.