A growing concern in the veterinary community is the prevalence of dental problems among pets. A cat’s or dog’s oral health may not seem like a big deal, but it affects their overall well-being. This is why the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) sponsors National Pet Dental Health Month every February. Without proper dental care, pets experience a variety of dental problems, which can become life-threatening when they impact an affected pet’s overall health.

Our Liberty Veterinary Hospital team understands that you do everything to keep your pet healthy. To help prevent your furry pal from developing dental disease, learn the facts about pet oral health and care. Get those toothbrushes ready!

The important role dental health plays in the well-being of pets

Poor dental hygiene in dogs and cats is first noticed through their breath. However, this is only one sign. Periodontal disease (i.e., dental disease) is a tooth and gum condition, caused by untreated plaque and tartar. More than 80% to 90% of all cats and dogs age 3 and older have some form of periodontal disease that could have been avoided through proper dental care.

Periodontitis is linked to heart, liver, and kidney diseases, often shortening an affected pet’s life span. Through regular dental examinations, professional dental cleanings, and at-home toothbrushing, you and our team can help prevent your pet from developing dental disease.

Stinky breath and other pet dental disease signs

Since you likely peek into your pet’s mouth infrequently, you may be missing some dental problem signs. Schedule a veterinary appointment if your pet exhibits these dental disease signs:

  • Halitosis (i.e., bad breath)
  • Yellow or brown stains on tooth surfaces
  • Red gums
  • Gum inflammation and swelling
  • Inability to chew foods, especially those that are hard
  • Favoring one side of the mouth while chewing
  • Bleeding gums
  • Missing or loose teeth

If these signs are present, your pet may be in pain. Schedule your pet’s professional dental examination with our Liberty Veterinary Hospital team. 

Preventive measures for pet dental care 

Pets, like people, need regular dental care to avoid disease and encourage healthy smiles. In our busy world, you can easily forget to perform tasks that can be challenging. However, daunting as your pet’s dental care can seem, establishing an at-home oral hygiene routine can make their toothbrushing session a one-to-one bonding experience and promote their good health. In addition, during your pet’s routine veterinary exams our team can explain how you can provide appropriate at-home dental care and we can assess your furry pal’s oral health. To prevent your pet from developing periodontal disease, follow these dental health care tips:

  • Brush your pet’s teeth — The path to fresh breath and good dental health is daily toothbrushing. Without this, food and bacteria morph into plaque and harden into tartar, destroying teeth and their supporting structures. Use a small toothbrush and pet-safe toothpaste. Never use your own toothpaste on your furry pal because some of the ingredients are toxic to pets. Introduce your pet to their toothbrush gradually, focusing only on the front incisors, then moving to the sides of the teeth as your pet gets used to the routine. Remember to give your furry pal a reward for cooperating.
  • Ensure your pet has an annual or biannual wellness exam — Dental care is an important component of overall well-being, which is why our team examines your pet’s teeth at each veterinary visit. We look for changes to their teeth, gums, and other oral structures, as well as create an at-home and professional dental care treatment plan. All cats and dogs require professional dental cleanings, starting at a year for cats and small-breed dogs, and age 2 for large breeds. During your pet’s dental cleaning, we also take digital dental X-rays to see what’s happening below the gumline.
  • Give your pet appropriate dental chews, treats, and products — While these items don’t replace toothbrushing and examinations, they can help prevent plaque and tartar accumulation. Ensure you give your pet a sturdy dental chew toy that won’t break apart, and remember to ensure the toy is suitable for your furry pal’s size. Dental products approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) have been proven effective at helping prevent plaque and tartar buildup on pets’ teeth. Remember, even healthy treats that keep dental disease at bay should be fed sparingly. To keep your pet at a healthy weight, treats should make up no more than 10% of their daily calorie intake. 

By caring for your pet’s dental health, you contribute to their overall well-being, longevity, and quality of life. Schedule your pet’s wellness exam and dental assessment with our Liberty Veterinary Hospital team.