The dental health of pets isn’t typically considered for preventive care. But their teeth are similar to ours; they should be treated to avoid getting diseased. Like us, they can experience dental problems with adequate care, but they are not as extensive or severe.
The health of a pet’s teeth is often ignored; however, it can pose a significant risk to their health and quality of life. Since dental illness frequently has no apparent symptoms, it is often found during routine checkups to identify other health problems. Based on your exam results, the doctor may recommend a dental cleaning plan, oral care routine, or even specific treatment.
Facts on Dental Care for Pets
Even though we all visit the dentist at least every six months to get routine cleanings and checks, many pet owners still think there is no need to give their pets frequent dental exams. Below is a list of essential facts concerning dental health care for pets.
1. Pets continue eating even when they are in pain.
Veterinarians are often taken aback at the harm they uncover in animals’ mouths, especially when no signs, such as hunger loss, severe swelling, tooth damage growths, or teeth decay, have been identified. Pets can exhibit symptoms like vomiting up food, eating slower, pawing at the mouth or face, mouth swelling or the face, a foul smell and discharge out of the mouth, and minor gum bleeding following meals. But a lack of desire to eat is an unusual sign.
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2. It isn’t normal to have foul breath.
Although pets’ breath doesn’t seem particularly lovely, it shouldn’t smell so bad. If they’ve had a meal recently, there will be an odor distinct from food. The smell shouldn’t be too unpleasant, however. It suggests that bacterial colonies are occurring beneath the line of gum. Abscessed roots or any major oral problem could be the reason. In rare cases, breathing problems can indicate an issue with health in other organs. In all cases, an exam is needed.
3. Annual anesthetized cleaning and radiographs are a must.
Many people floss their teeth regularly and should brush at least daily. However, we require professional dental cleanings yearly, and problems can still be identified. Take into consideration that the majority of pets we care for have not had their teeth brushed. Cats and dogs are not likely to have cavities, just like us, but they often develop periodontitis, an infection around the teeth and the roots.
Always include having an annual dental checkup when you send your pet for routine exams. Anesthesia-assisted dental cleanings are performed yearly to reduce tartar buildup beneath the gum line, and radiographs show problems with the bones and the roots when they are first noticed.
4. Dental diseases can impact general health.
Dental problems can trigger bacteria to enter the bloodstream through the gums and move to other body regions, such as the liver, kidney, and heart valves. This happens in the case that gum tissue becomes infected by bacteria. The mouth inflammation can also exacerbate other diseases within the body. Dental and oral illness treatment has been linked to improved treatment of various conditions, such as diabetes.
5. Home preventative care is vital.
A way to get rid of the plaque is by brushing your teeth if it’s done within the first 24 hours after eating. It can be challenging to brush; however, pet owners always have the option to bring their pets to the vet for a free demonstration and help with brushing. Dental treats are the second most effective treatment for pets at home. There are diets specifically made to benefit the teeth. Also helpful are goodies that require chewing, like dog biscuits and thin rawhide chews.
You can discuss with your veterinarian the need for a geriatric care for senior pets since it is important to provide your senior pet with routine preventative care and early diagnosis as they age so that they can enjoy a high quality of life.