Healthy Bites: Pet Dental Care Decoded
Can you imagine never brushing your teeth or visiting the dentist for a cleaning and checkup? Unfortunately, this is a common scenario for many pets, and as a result, the vast majority suffer from some form of dental disease.
Pet dental care may seem like an unnecessary expense, but fixing damage related to neglect can be more expensive and have serious repercussions to your pet’s health. Daily care at home is important in preventing the tartar buildup and decay that plagues many pets. Along with at-home care, pet dental exams should also be included, which is an essential component of veterinary wellness care.
Why Pet Dental Care?
According to the American Veterinary Dental Association, up to 80% of dogs and 70% of cats have some form of dental disease by age 3. Dental disease in pets can trigger a host of systemic problems, including decreased immune function, heart disease, kidney and liver issues, diabetes, and cancer.
Signs your pet may be suffering from dental disease include:
- Foul breath
- Excessive drooling
- Worn or broken teeth
- Bleeding from the mouth
- Swollen, red, or inflamed gums
- Loss of appetite or difficulty chewing
- Pawing at the mouth/pain while eating
Bring your pet in to see us right away if you notice any of these symptoms.
Home Care Counts
A regular pet dental care routine is not only crucial for preventing or slowing the progression of dental disease, but it also gives you the chance to get to know what is normal for your pet, allowing you to identify problems early.
Toothbrushing is the foundation of any home pet dental care regimen. With time, patience, and lots of practice, most pets will adapt to daily brushing. We are happy to advise you on the best way to brush your pet’s teeth. Be sure to check out these links regarding cat and dog tooth brushing, too.
There are plenty of pet dental care products on the market that claim to improve your pet’s oral health. While certain rinses, treats, and chews can aid in keeping your pet’s teeth clean, no product can replace daily brushing and professional care. Ask your veterinarian for recommendations before purchasing a pet dental care product.
Professional Pet Dental Care
Maintaining regular wellness examinations for your pet is an important part of their dental health. Most pets require comprehensive dental examinations and cleanings throughout their lives to improve and maintain oral health. The wellness exam gives your veterinarian the opportunity to assess your pet’s mouth and make recommendations for follow-up care.
We’re Here for You
There’s no reason why you shouldn’t take advantage of the incredible advances in the field of veterinary dentistry! Give the team at Advantage Veterinary Center a call to schedule an appointment for your furry friend.