As pet owners, we pride ourselves on providing the best care for our furry companions but one aspect of pet health often overlooked is dental care. August is Pet Dental Health Month, raising awareness of the importance of dental health for pets, and its impact on overall wellbeing.
The Importance of Pet Dental Health
Pets can suffer from dental disease that, if left untreated, leads to more serious problems. Oral hygiene problems are very common, with up to 80% of dogs and cats over the age of 3 having some degree of dental disease. Poor dental health can not only cause halitosis, and pain and difficulty eating, but can also cause systemic problems: heart, kidney and liver issues, caused when bacteria living in the oral cavity enter the bloodstream and travel to other organs.
Signs of Dental Disease in Pets
– Bad breath
– Red, inflamed, bleeding or recessed gums
– Visible plaque deposits on teeth
– Difficulty chewing, or chewing on one side of the mouth only
– Excessive drooling
– Changes in appetite or food preferences
If you notice your pet displaying any of these signs, consult your veterinarian.
Professional Dental Care
As with a human dentist, your pet’s veterinarian will perform a full oral examination, dental x-rays, and a full scale and polish to remove any plaque or tartar. Unlike (most of) us, pets won’t lie still, so the procedure is performed under general anaesthesia. Dental x-rays identify dental disease that cannot be seen. A scale and polish is much more beneficial when performed early in the disease process. Changes at this stage are often reversible. Once changes like gum recession and bone loss start, it is much more difficult to treat and tooth extractions may be required.
Prevention and Home Care Tips
Prevention is the key to dental health, and there are a number of things you can do at home to help keep your pet’s teeth in optimum condition:
1. Regular Brushing: Just as we brush our teeth daily, pets also benefit from regular brushing. Use a pet-specific toothbrush and toothpaste (never use human toothpaste as it can be toxic for animals) and aim to brush their teeth several times a week. Don’t worry if you struggle to be consistent with this though – any brushing is better than none!
2. Dental Chews and Toys: Providing dental chews and toys designed to promote dental health helps reduce plaque and tartar build-up.
3. Dental Diet: There are specially formulated dental diets available that help reduce plaque and tartar accumulation.
4. Regular Veterinary Check-ups: Schedule regular dental check-ups with your veterinarian. Professional cleaning and early identification of any potential issues will help prevent advanced disease.
By understanding the importance of dental care, recognising the signs of dental disease, and implementing preventive measures at home, we can help our pets live healthier, happier lives. This August let’s celebrate Pet Dental Health Month by taking proactive steps to care for our pets’ smiles. Remember, a healthy mouth means a healthier pet overall!
This content is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you have any concerns or questions regarding your pet, please contact your vet for advice.
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