The good news for dogs and cats is that they are less prone to cavities than humans are. Despite the widespread perception that a dog’s mouth is cleaner than a human’s, pets can develop tartar and plaque collection and gingivitis. You should, however, be concerned about more than just bad breath and discolored teeth. As with humans, these canine dental anomalies can result in potentially fatal infections and illnesses of the heart, liver, and kidney.
How to Keep Your Pet’s Teeth Healthy
Below, we’ve included some helpful ideas for keeping your pets’ mouths as healthy as your own.
Brush your pet’s teeth daily.
While we are all aware of the need for daily oral care for our teeth, few are aware that pets require the same amount of care daily. It is better to initiate this practice when your pet is young since this will assist them in quickly adapting. Even an elderly dog or cat can acquire this new habit with sufficient positive reinforcement.
Invest in tooth-friendly foods.
Crunchy kibble is preferred over canned pet food, which encourages the formation of tartar and plaque. While many pet foods and treats advertise their ability to support oral health in pets, not all of them actually do. For suggestions on dental-specific diets, consult your veterinarian or visit advancedcarevet.com to get more info.
Have your pet’s teeth examined at least once a year.
While you and your family may visit the dentist on a semi-regular basis, most people do not bring their pets to the vet dentist in Poway, CA for teeth cleaning. You should schedule an examination of your pet’s dental health with your veterinarian at least once a year.
Be wary of treats and toys that can damage your pet’s teeth.
While some toys and treats can help keep your pet’s teeth clean, others might cause tooth fracture or early tooth erosion. Additionally, bones and other delectables may fragment, posing a choking hazard or causing gastrointestinal distress. Do not give your pet rawhide, bones, or even nylon tennis balls unless you are present to supervise. When you are forced to leave your pet alone, substitute rubber balls or Kong toys.
Contact your vet immediately if you notice any dental health issues.
If your pet depicts any of the following oral health conditions, you may wish to get their teeth inspected before their yearly dental exam on places like a Poway animal hospital:
- Teeth that are fractured or are loose
- Teeth discoloration due to foul breath
- Teeth with tartar buildup
- bleeding from the mouth
- Mouth or surrounding area swells
- Unusual chewing or spitting up of food
- Extremely drooling
- Appetite deficiency or aversion to food
- Noticeable discomfort around or around the mouth
Conclusion
Dental care is inconvenient for both humans and pets, but it can be cost-effective and even lifesaving in the long term with proper maintenance. Allowing it to die can result in further costly and frequently painful vet appointments in the future. Some pets require an anesthetic to clean their teeth and gums if the accumulation is bad enough. Keep your pet’s lips clean, and you and your pet will get both grins.
