The Importance of Pet Dental Health
February is National Pet Dental Health Month, but oral health for pets should be prioritized all year long. At Allure Veterinary Partners, we want pet families to understand the importance of preventing dental disease in pets, so our caring team is here with a primer on pet dental care benefits.
Why Pet Dental Health Matters
Oral health for pets should be part of every pet’s plan for optimal wellness. Without ongoing dental care, the bacteria in a pet’s mouth can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, and even heart, liver, and kidney complications. Most pets already have some level of gum disease by the time they’re just 3 years old, and senior pets have a higher risk of rapid dental disease progression.
Preventing Dental Disease in Pets
Comprehensive dental examinations and cleanings performed by an experienced veterinarian form the foundation of oral health for pets. Regular dental check-ups help prevent dental disease in pets and go a long way toward preventing pet dental pain.
We’re proud to offer our pet families safe and effective dental procedures that adhere to the highest standards of care. Our comprehensive exams are performed under general anesthesia and include the following:
- Thorough cleaning
- Tartar and plaque removal
- Polishing
- Fluoride treatments
- Extractions as necessary
- Other treatments if necessary
Practice Oral Health for Pets at Home
At-home oral health for pets is the perfect complement to professional pet dental exams. Protect your pet’s pearly whites with these at-home pet oral health tips:
- Brush your pet’s teeth every day if possible or several times a week. (We are happy to demonstrate brushing techniques at your pet’s next visit.)
- Use a toothbrush and toothpaste made just for pets.
- Serve your pet a dental health diet designed to minimize trapped food particles.
- Reward your pet’s good behavior with pet dental treats.
- Use a dental additive in your pet’s water.
Watch for These Signs of Dental Disease in Pets
Sometimes, in spite of our best efforts to prevent dental disease in pets, problems can still pop up. Please contact us if your pet displays any of these warning signs:
- Loose or broken teeth
- Chronically bad breath
- Trouble chewing
- Reluctance to eat
- Food falling out of the mouth
- Bleeding gums
- Unusual lumps or bumps in the mouth
- Excessive pawing at the mouth
Healthy Smiles Contribute to Healthy Pets
National Pet Dental Health Month is the perfect time to extol all the pet dental care benefits and raise awareness for the importance of preventing pet dental pain. We’re happy to answer your questions about why pet dental health matters. Contact us today at (916) 680-9975.