You likely focus on the enjoyable aspects of your pet’s care, including playing, feeding them nutritious meals, and snuggling on the couch. However, a pet care aspect that is often overlooked is dental health and hygiene. Like you, your pet requires regular dental care to ensure healthy teeth and gums and overall well-being. Our Skyway Animal Hospital team discusses pet dental health’s importance, common dental issues, preventive measures, and maintaining your furry pal’s pearly whites and happy smile.

Why is pet dental health important?

Dental health is a crucial aspect of your pet’s teeth and gums, but it also helps protect their systemic health. Poor oral hygiene can lead to myriad health problems, including tooth decay, gum disease, and eventually systemic issues affecting vital organs such as the heart and kidneys. If you neglect your pet’s dental care, they can experience pain and discomfort, negatively impacting their quality of life and longevity. 

Common pet dental problems

If your pet’s dental care is inadequate, they can develop many problems. Poor oral health can lead to the following:

  • Periodontal disease — Periodontitis is the most prevalent pet dental problem, and the condition inflames and infects their gums and surrounding tissues. An estimated two-thirds of all pets older than 3 years of age have this disease. 
  • Tooth decay — Pets can develop tooth decay caused by plaque and tartar accumulation. Untreated tooth decay will progress to tooth loss. 
  • Fractured, loose, or broken teeth — Chewing on hard objects, trauma, or tooth decay can result in broken or fractured teeth. These conditions can be painful for your pet and disrupt their ability to eat or chew, which can eventually lead to malnutrition. 
  • Oral tumors — If your pet’s dental care is inadequate, they can develop tumors in their mouth, which may require surgical removal and further treatment.

Dental problems signs in pets

Understanding how to spot dental problems in your four-legged friend can help you ensure they get the proper treatment. Contact our Skyway Animal Hospital team for a dental exam if your pet exhibits these signs:

  • Bad breath (i.e., halitosis)
  • Difficulty chewing hard food 
  • Rubbing their mouth or jaw
  • Mouth or facial swelling
  • Bleeding along the gumline 
  • Tooth discoloration
  • Broken or loose teeth
  • Oral ulcers, abscesses, or lesions 
  • Gum inflammation or redness
  • Excessive drooling

Oral hygiene care for pets

Because your pet’s dental problems can be serious, you may wonder how to help keep your furry pal’s teeth in excellent health. The great news is periodontitis and other dental problems can be prevented by following these tips:

  • Regular toothbrushing — Brush your four-legged friend’s teeth daily or every other day using a toothbrush and toothpaste specifically designed for pets. Do not be tempted to give your furry pal human-grade toothpaste, as its ingredients can harm your pet. Getting your pet acclimated to toothbrushing requires persistence and patience. Allow them to gradually adjust to toothbrushing to make it a part of their daily routine. 
  • Nutrition for dental health — Feed your pet a balanced diet that promotes dental health, such as specially formulated dental chews or kibble designed to reduce plaque and tartar buildup. Discuss food options with your Skyway Animal Hospital veterinarian. In addition, the most effective dental treats have the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal of acceptance on the packaging. This organization tests the efficacy of dental treats and other oral health products. 
  • Dental exams and professional teeth cleanings — Dental exams are part of your pet’s wellness checkups. During your pet’s exam, your veterinarian inspects your pet’s oral health, looking for any problem signs. Most pets need their teeth professionally cleaned regularly to remove plaque and tartar buildup. Professional dental cleanings are the most effective way of mitigating periodontal disease and maintaining your pet’s oral health.

Consistency is key to maintaining your pet’s dental health. Make dental care a regular part of your furry pal’s routine, including brushing their teeth daily, and monitoring their oral health closely for discomfort signs and abnormalities.

Maintaining your pet’s dental health is fundamental to responsible pet ownership. By understanding dental care’s importance, recognizing common dental issues, implementing preventive measures, and scheduling professional dental cleanings, you can ensure your furry companion enjoys a lifetime of happy smiles, exuberant wags, and optimal health. Schedule your pet’s oral exam and professional dental cleaning with our Skyway Animal Hospital team.