As a pet owner, you may already know that regular checkup appointments are essential to keeping your pet active and healthy. But did you know that dental checkups are equally important? Regular dental exams help prevent tooth loss, gum disease, and bacterial infections.
REGULAR BRUSHING AND PET DENTAL EXAMS
Think your pet’s oral health is in good shape? You may want to think twice: the majority of cats and dogs aged three or older have periodontal disease, an infection of the tissues that hold your pet’s teeth in place. Without prompt treatment, periodontal disease can lead to serious oral health problems.
Regular dental care is the best way to help prevent periodontal disease in your pet. Below, our veterinarian shares three reasons why regular dental care should be part of your pet’s wellness care:
#1: Brushing teeth helps to stop plaque deposits.
After your pet eats a meal, food particles and bacteria can accumulate along the gum line, creating plaque. Over time, these deposits can harden and cause gum disease. Regular brushing is the best way to prevent plaque build-up and keep your pet’s gums healthy. Our veterinarian recommends brushing your pet’s teeth once per week.
#2: Regular dental cleanings help prevent tooth loss.
Once tartar forms along the gum line, it can only be removed using professional dental instruments. Without prompt removal, the tartar can push away the gum line, creating pockets in the gums that are susceptible to bacterial infections and may cause tooth loss and gum disease. Gum disease can be incredibly painful for pets; in addition to tooth loss, these infections make it difficult to chew food, carry toys, or play fetch.
#3: Bacterial infections that start in the gums can spread throughout the body.
Once a bacterial gum infection enters the bloodstream, it can easily spread to other parts of your pet’s body, causing serious health problems. This infection can affect the kidneys, liver, and heart. Proactive pet dental care is the best way to prevent serious infection and health problems.
Do you brush your pet's teeth?