Dental Care
| Pets have teeth too | Signs of poor oral health | Care | Diet |
We brush our teeth twice daily sometimes more often. Imagine if you never brushed your teeth or visited a dentist your teeth would be decaying and possibly many would have rotted and fallen out. Many pets' teeth are in this condition. Gum disease is one of the most common ailments seen by veterinarians. Some simple, routine care at home and periodic checks of your pet's teeth by your veterinarian can let your pet have shining white teeth like a movie star.
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- Persistent bad breath
- Sensitivity around the mouth
- Pawing at the mouth
- Loss of appetite
- Plaque
- Bleeding, inflamed or receding gums
- Tartar
- Loose, missing, or infected teeth
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First have your pet's teeth examined by your veterinarian. Your pet may need to have his teeth cleaned. During the cleaning your pet will be placed under anesthesia, your veterinarian would be happy to further discuss this procedure. After your pet's teeth have been cleaned, it is important to continue the care at home. You should brush your pet's teeth with special animal tooth paste. Do not use human tooth paste or baking soda. Be patient when you first start to brush your pet's teeth and use plenty of petting and treats. You may have to start with only one tooth. Gradually try to work up to thirty seconds of brushing per side.
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Diet plays an important role in keeping your pet's teeth healthy. Hard crunchy foods will help reduce the amount of plaque build up. Beef hide chews can also help. Remember even if your pet eats only kibble, you still must provide other dental care.
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