The good news is that dogs and cats do not get cavities as readily as humans. Despite the long-held perception that canines have a cleaner mouth than humans, pets can nevertheless acquire tartar and plaque deposits and gingivitis. You should, however, be concerned about more than just bad breath and yellow teeth. As is the case with humans, these canine dental anomalies can result in potentially fatal infections and diseases of the heart, liver, and kidney.
How to Keep Your Pet’s Teeth Healthy
Below are some helpful ideas for keeping your pets’ lips as healthy as your own.
Brush your pet’s teeth daily.
While we are all aware of the critical nature of daily oral care for human teeth, few people realize that pets require the same amount of care on a daily basis. It is recommended to begin this habit while your pet is still young since this will assist them in quickly adapting. Even an aged dog or cat can acquire this new behavior with plenty of positive reinforcement.
Invest in tooth-friendly foods.
Crunchy kibble is preferable to canned pet food, which contributes to the formation of tartar and plaque. While many pet foods and treats make the claim that they support oral health in pets, not all do. Consult your veterinarian for dental-specific food recommendations.
Have your pet’s teeth examined at least once a year.
While you and your family may visit the dentist on a semi-regular basis, the majority of people do not take their pets to places like an animal hospital named Advanced Veterinary Care center for dental examinations. At the very least once a year, you should visit your veterinarian to have your pet’s oral health inspected.
Be wary of treats and toys that can damage your pet’s teeth.
While some toys and treats may help keep your pet’s teeth clean, others may cause tooth fracture or early tooth erosion. Additionally, bones and other delectables can fragment, posing a choking hazard or causing gastrointestinal distress. Allow your pet to have rawhide, bones, or even nylon tennis balls only when you are present to supervise. When you are unable to leave your pet alone, substitute rubber balls or Kong toys to avoid a costly vet surgery.
Contact your vet immediately if you notice any dental health issues.
If your furry companion exhibits any of the following oral health conditions, you may wish to get their teeth inspected by a dog dentist:
- Loose or fractured teeth
- Bad breath Discoloration of the teeth
- Teeth covered in tartar
- Bleeding mouth
- Mouth or surrounding area swelling
- Unusual chewing or dumping of food
- Excessive drooling
- Appetite loss or aversion to food
- Notable pain in or around the mouth
Conclusion
Dental upkeep can be a hassle for both us humans and pets, but it can be cost-effective and even lifesaving in the long term with proper maintenance. Allowing it to die may result in further costly and frequently painful vet appointments in the future. Many pets require an anesthetic to clean their teeth and gums if the accumulation is serious enough. Keep your pet’s mouth clean, and both of you will smile.
