The Importance of Regular Dental Care for Pets

 

As pet owners, we want what’s best for our furry best friends and providing nutritious food, engaging in regular exercise, and scheduling routine checkups are part of a well-balanced plan to help give them the healthiest lives possible. While annual appointments with the veterinarian are often part of every pet owner plan, dental care is often overlooked. If your pet experiences dental problems, it can lead to serious health issues if left untreated. Keep reading to learn some reasons why dental care is crucial for pets.

Helps to prevent gum disease and tooth loss

Similar to how we as humans require routine dental care, pets are prone to many of the same dental problems. Without proper dental hygiene, these issues can lead to gum disease and even tooth loss, both of which can be difficult to manage and painful for your pet. Plaque builds up on teeth and hardens into tartar if left untreated. If this is not taken care of, gums can become irritated leading to gingivitis or periodontitis.

Periodontal disease is the most common dental condition in dogs and cats. In fact, by the time your pet is three years old, they will likely have some early evidence of periodontal disease. The best way to avoid these common dental problems is through regular dental care with brushing as well as by scheduling regular professional cleanings to help prevent the buildup of plaque and tartar.

Reduce bad breath

Chronic bad breath can be a sign of underlying dental issues and it’s important to be aware of the difference between a few instances of bad breath and consistent foul odors coming from your pet’s mouth. Just like brushing and regular dental checkups can help prevent gum disease and tooth loss, they can also reduce bad breath. This not only makes cuddles more pleasant for you and your pooch but also helps to prevent diseases caused by bacteria and plaque buildup.

Helps to improve overall health

If you observe bad breath, broken or loose teeth, extra teeth, teeth that are discolored or covered in tartar, pain in or around the mouth, or other signs that your pet is having issues with their teeth, you should schedule a visit with your veterinarian to have your pet checked. Dental problems can lead to more than just discomfort and bacteria that is left untreated can enter the bloodstream, resulting in more than just bad breath and sore gums.

Regularly brushing your pet’s teeth is the single most effective action you can taker to keep your pet’s teeth healthy and possibly prevent most of the common oral diseases. Dental care is an important part of a pet’s overall health and in addition to brushing your pet and the AVMA advises that their gums and teeth be checked at least once a year by a veterinarian. This regular care helps to not only check for early signs of problems, but also helps keep your pet’s mouth healthy, avoiding dental problems that can lead to other serious health problems. If you have any concern about your pet’s dental or simply need to schedule an appointment at Bregman Veterinary Group, click here to get started.