Any pet parent will tell you that their four-legged friend is part of the family.
Like human family members, our pets need routine checkups and maintenance to stay healthy – including dental care.
Unfortunately, many pet parents don’t realise the importance of great dental health for their furry friends until it’s too late.
In this article, we’ll go over why dental health is so essential for pets, as well as what you can do to keep your pet’s teeth clean and healthy.
The Consequences Of Poor Pet Dental Care
Just like humans, animals are susceptible to dental problems such as gum disease and tooth decay.
If left unchecked, these problems could result in further health complications such as heart disease, respiratory infections, and kidney failure.
If you have a pet, there’s a good chance they will suffer from the periodontal disease at some point in their life. It is estimated that over 80% of dogs and 70% of cats show signs of the condition by the time they are three years old.
Periodontal disease is the most common dental problem in pets, and it occurs when plaque and tartar buildup on the teeth and gums. Periodontal disease can lead to infection, pain, tooth loss, and other serious health problems if left untreated.
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Both dogs and cats are susceptible to periodontal disease, an illness that primarily affects the teeth. It results from tartar and plaque buildup on the teeth, resulting in gum irritation.
Periodontal disease can progress to loss of bone and tooth structure if left untreated. In severe cases, it can even lead to organ damage.
Treatment typically involves regular professional cleanings and at-home care such as brushing and using special dental rinses.
In some cases, surgery may also be necessary. You can help your pet stay healthy and avoid potential complications by taking steps to prevent periodontal disease.
The Effects Of Dental Disease On Pets
Dental disease doesn’t just cause pain and discomfort for your pet; it can also significantly impact their quality of life.
Animals with dental problems may not want to eat or drink because it hurts too much. It can lead to weight loss, dehydration, and other problems. Dental disease can make it difficult for your pet to groom themselves properly, leading to skin infections.
What Are the Signs of Dental Disease in Our Pets?
Dogs and cats can be very good at hiding signs of dental disease, and sometimes, the only thing you will notice is their stinky breath.
Other signs you may notice include:
- Swelling in the mouth
- Redness
- Bleeding on the gums
- Difficulty or hesitance to eat
- Preference for soft foods
- Exposure of tooth root surfaces or abnormalities in the appearance of the teeth
If you suspect your pet has dental disease, it’s important to take them to the vet for a checkup. The vet will be able to assess the severity of the problem and recommend the best course of treatment.
With proper care, your pet can enjoy a healthy mouth for years.
Things You Can Do To Prevent Pet Dental Disease
The good news is that there are things you can do to prevent pet dental disease before it starts
- Brushing your pet’s teeth is the easiest approach to preventing pet dental disease. Brush your dog’s teeth using pet-safe toothpaste (never use human toothpaste) on a daily basis.
- You should also give them chew toys or treats that help remove plaque and tartar from their teeth.
- Regular checkups with your veterinarian are crucial in catching any potential dental problems early on before they become serious health risks.
- A professional pet dental cleaning will remove tartar and plaque buildup and polish your dog’s teeth, making them less likely to develop dental disease.
How Often Should My Pet’s Teeth Be Checked?
Depending on your pet, how often their teeth should be checked will vary. For example, a senior cat who isn’t as active as it used to be won’t need their teeth checked as often as a labrador puppy who’s still growing and teething.
A good rule of thumb is to have your pet’s teeth checked at least once a year by a professional. This way, potential problems can be caught early and prevented or treated accordingly.
Oral health is just as important for pets as humans, so don’t neglect your furry friend’s pearly whites.
Final Thoughts
It’s important to remember that, like humans, our pets need routine care to stay healthy, including regular dental checkups.
Dental disease is one of the most prevalent health issues in cats and dogs, but there are things you can do to avoid it.
By brushing your pet’s teeth regularly at home and taking them in for regular checkups with the vet, you can help ensure that their teeths stay healthy and sparkling for years to come!
About Matraville Veterinary Practice
Your pet isn’t just an animal to you, but a family member. We care for all creatures, great and small – as if they were our family. At Matraville Veterinary Practice, we’re here to ensure your furry (and not so furry) loved ones have a long, happy, healthy life.
With our large team of friendly, dedicated staff, we’ll take care of your pet’s every need.
At Matraville Veterinary Practice, we offer FREE dental checks anytime, so come in whenever suits you. One of our experienced veterinarians will perform an oral examination and discuss dental prevention or treatment required.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Good for Dog’s Dental Health?
Dental health is just as essential for dogs as it is for people. Brushing your dog’s teeth regularly is important to maintain good oral health. You can also give them dental toys and bones to chew on, which will help keep their teeth clean.
In addition, it is important to take your dog for professional dental cleanings. During a cleaning, a vet will clean your dog’s teeth and remove any tartar or plaque that has built up.
You can assist your dog in maintaining a healthy condition by maintaining its dental health.
How Important Is Pet’s Oral Health for Dogs?
Good oral health care is important for pets, particularly dogs. Many people are unaware that their dogs can develop dental diseases like humans. It is why professional dental cleanings and regular at-home brushing are so important.
Dental disease in dogs can lead to several problems, including bad breath, painful mouth lesions, and tooth loss. In extreme cases, it can even lead to heart disease.
Taking care of your dog’s teeth can help keep them healthy and avoid these serious problems. So next time you’re at the veterinarian, ask about your pet’s dental health. It could be the key to your furry friend’s long and happy life.
Is It Worth Getting Your Dog or Pet’s Teeth Cleaned?
As any pet owner knows, keeping their furry friend healthy and happy is a top priority. It means annual checkups with the veterinarian, a balanced diet, and plenty of exercises. Oral hygiene is often overlooked when caring for a pet, but it is just as important for them as it is for humans.
Regular professional dental cleaning can help to prevent the development of dental disease, keeping your pet’s teeth healthy and their breath fresh. In addition, taking care of your pet’s oral hygiene can also help to extend their life by reducing the risk of infection and developing dental disease.
While it may seem unnecessary, professional dental cleanings are worth the investment in your pet’s healthy teeth.
What Is the Most Common Dental Condition in Dogs?
Dental disease is the most common condition seen by veterinarians. Three-fourths of all dogs over the age of three suffer from periodontal disease, an inflammation of the gums.
Periodontal disease is the result of a buildup of plaque and tartar. Plaque is a sticky film of food debris, bacteria, and saliva. Tartar is hardened plaque that has been building up on the tooth surface for some time. Plaque and tartar that aren’t removed can eventually cause gingivitis or inflamed gums. Gingivitis is reversible with proper dental care. However, if left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, an irreversible condition resulting in bone loss and tooth loss.
Pet owners can do several things to promote good oral health in their dogs.
- Firstly, it is important to start dental hygiene early. You should brush your dog’s teeth at least once a week, starting when they’re still puppies. In addition, regular professional cleanings by a veterinarian are recommended. Over time, it will help remove plaque and tartar built up on the teeth.
- Secondly, pet owners should be aware of the signs of dental disease and seek veterinary care if their dog shows any discomfort.
- Finally, various pet dental products can help prevent plaque and tartar buildup, such as water additives, chew toys, and special diets.
Pet owners can help their dogs maintain good oral health throughout their lives by taking these steps.
What Is Advanced Periodontal Disease?
When most people think of gum disease, they think of the early stages of gums becoming red, swollen, and bleeding easily. However, gum disease can progress to a more serious condition known as advanced periodontal disease.
Advanced periodontal disease occurs when the gum line begins to pull away from the teeth, creating infected pockets. The bacteria in these pockets can damage the gum tissue, bone, and ligaments that support the teeth. If left untreated, advanced periodontal disease can eventually lead to tooth loss.
Fortunately, advanced periodontal disease is preventable with regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups. If your pet has already developed advanced periodontal disease, your veterinarian can provide you with treatment options to help improve your pet’s oral health.