Going to the dentist for a checkup and cleaning seems standard now for us but did you know that it is just as important for your dog or cat? Your pet may not be able to tell you that their mouth hurts so it’s up to you to advocate for your pet’s best health by having them go visit a dentist! Here is a list of some of the benefits of maintaining dental health for pets!
Avoid Periodontal Disease
Plaque buildup, or calcified bacterial growth near the gums, is a frequent cause of periodontal disease. This is such a common problem that statistics show that 4 out of 5 adult dogs have periodontal disease. Some of the warning signs to watch for are red gums and uncommonly bad breath. In more advanced cases, the bacteria can affect the teeth’s roots as the gum recedes and leads to an abscess. Signs that this complication has occurred are swelling of the face, different chewing or eating patterns, pain, or even unexpected tooth loss. Proper dental health activities for your pets such as annual professional cleanings and regular at-home brushing are great ways to remove plaque and avoid periodontal pain. Periodontal disease is not reversible, so it’s best to catch it before it happens.
Dental Health Can Help Avoid Heart, Kidney, and Liver Disease
Not only does periodontal disease affect the mouth, but the bacteria that builds of the teeth can, of course, get ingested. It then can infect your dog or cat’s heart, kidneys, and liver and cause other severe problems.
Avoid Teeth Pain
No pet owner ever wants to see their beloved animal in pain. There are many reasons why a pet may experience tooth pain. Some pets can retain their baby teeth which leads to gum irritation or stress related to overcrowding. In other cases, a lack of dental hygiene can cause teeth to painfully fall out or get worn down. This makes it difficult for them to do the activities that they love, such as playing fetch, nibbling on a favorite bone, or even eating. Cavities are often quite common. Unfortunately, tooth pain is often only noticed by owners when it’s severe and sometimes much more difficult to treat, so regular dental checkups are important!
In addition, your pet can suffer from inflammation or ulcers. Some of the symptoms include bad breath, bloated gums, and of course, changes in eating habits. Good dental health for pets can help prevent some of these painful conditions!
Better Breath
This may be more for you than your pet, but all owners know the struggle of wanting to be close to your dog or cat while their breath causes you to recoil. Regular dental cleanings can lead to fewer bacteria in their mouth and, as a result, better breath. A win-win situation, indeed! Taking your dog or cat to the dentist is an easy way to improve their quality of life and even prolong their life span. Though some pets may find a visit to the dentist stressful, in the right hands, it can be smooth and easy. With decades of experience and great care for our animal community, Cherrelyn Animal Hospital is dedicated to keeping your dog and cats happy and healthy. Call us or visit us online to schedule your pet’s dental visit!
Taking your dog or cat to the dentist is an easy way to improve their quality of life and even prolong their life span. Though some pets may find a visit to the dentist stressful, in the right hands, it can be smooth and easy. With decades of experience and great care for our animal community, Cherrelyn Animal Hospital is dedicated to keeping your dog and cats happy and healthy. Call us or visit us online to schedule your pet’s dental visit!
