The Importance of Dental Health for Pets: Start the Year with a Healthy Smile
Far from a luxurious add-on service, proper dental care has the potential to add years to a pet’s life. With careful attention to the gums, we can prevent the dangerous consequences of plaque and tartar, reduce the likelihood of systemic disease, and increase a pet’s quality of life. That may seem like a tall order. Because most pets over the age of three live with varying stages of periodontal (gum) disease, we make pet dental health a long-term goal with bona fide rewards.
Never Too Late
Pets benefit from a regular approach to dental care. Ideally, their teeth get a good brushing at least once a day. Some owners may only get up to one brushing per week. Others may not start giving their pet’s teeth and gums any attention until dental disease has already taken root.
No matter where you are regarding your pet’s dental care, it’s never too late to get on board. Dental disease is 100% preventable. However, early detection and treatment can have good results at stopping the spread.
The Plan
At every pet wellness exam, we take a close look at the appearance of the teeth and gums. Because the effects of periodontal disease occur beneath the gum line, we can’t fully see the extent of any damage. Yearly dental cleanings, conducted under general anesthesia, involve the removal of plaque and tartar on the teeth. Digital X-rays can clue us into the state of the roots of the teeth.
With a dental probe, we will assess any pockets between recessed gums and teeth and measure their size. Advanced periodontal disease may warrant the extraction of affected teeth. Pre-anesthesia blood work is done to understand the normal functioning of a pet’s liver and kidneys.
All Connected
Bacteria in the mouth can actually seep into the bloodstream, where it travels to the body’s main organs. Consequently, periodontal disease is linked to serious health conditions affecting the heart, liver, and kidneys.
By removing any accumulation of plaque on a pet’s teeth, you are impacting their general health. Routine brushing at home, annual dental cleanings, and even prescription diets, and dental treats are all part of the pet dental care puzzle. If the plaque is ignored and left alone, it can harden into tarter along the gum line. Over time, the tarter can make the gums recede and bleed. Tooth decay, oral abscesses, infections, and pain are all common ramifications of dental disease.
Pet Dental Health
Bad breath is usually the first sign that something is amiss inside a pet’s mouth. However, by the time an owner notices it, halitosis is a mere side effect of a disease that’s already gained a foothold.
When it comes to achieving pet wellness, the best medicine is prevention. We can help you establish and maintain an effective dental health routine at home and address any questions about our professional dental health services. Trusted Friend Animal Clinic is always happy to help you at (404) 907‑1404.