Pet dental health is an often overlooked aspect of overall well-being, but it plays a crucial role in ensuring your furry friend leads a happy and healthy life. National Pet Dental Health Month is observed every February, and it’s a great reminder to pet owners to prioritize your pet’s dental health by ensuring regular veterinary checkups, brushing your pet’s teeth, and providing dental-friendly treats and toys. It is an essential part of their care! Just like humans, pets can suffer from dental issues that can impact their overall health and quality of life.
The Importance of Pet Dental Health:
Preventing Dental Issues: Dental problems in pets, such as plaque buildup, tartar, and gum disease, can lead to discomfort and pain. Regular dental care can help prevent these issues and keep your pet's mouth healthy.
Overall Health Impact: Poor dental health can have a cascading effect on your pet's overall well-being. Bacteria from dental problems can enter the bloodstream, affecting organs such as the heart, liver, and kidneys. By maintaining good oral hygiene, you contribute to your pet's overall health and longevity.
Unfortunately some dental issues (like tumors, for example) are genetic to certain breeds and cannot be avoided, even with preventative measures.
Common Dental Problems in Pets:
Plaque and Tartar: Just like humans, pets can develop plaque and tartar on their teeth, which can lead to gingivitis and periodontal disease if not addressed.
Gum Disease: Gingivitis, an inflammation of the gums, is a common issue in pets. If left untreated, it can progress to periodontal disease, which may result in tooth loss.
Bad Breath: Persistent bad breath can be a sign of dental problems in pets. It's very important to identify underlying causes and address them to keep your pet's breath fresh and ensure they aren’t caused by dental issues.
With our dog Molly, we have persistently brushed on a regular schedule since she was a baby. Her teeth look fantastic, which is incredible for a 10 year old pup! However, despite maintaining good oral health, two years ago we discovered that she had an oral tumor. Thankfully, the tumor was not cancerous, but without surgical removal, it would have continued to grow in size and ultimately prevent her from eating.
In February 2022 Molly had a major dental surgery with a specialist. She had some jaw bone removed along with a few teeth and of course, the tumor. I can’t thank Dr. Baratt at Salem Valley Veterinary Clinic in Salem, CT enough. Dr. Baratt did an absolute AMAZING job on Molly's surgery. Honestly, you can't even tell she had to have major surgery done on her jaw, and we are certain the tumor will not come back! This means our dog will be able to live the rest of her life normally and without complications!
Hopefully you will not face something as serious as an oral tumor with your pet, but regardless, taking care of your pet’s dental health is so important for their overall well-being and can add on many quality years to their lives too. I'm always very happy to help any of my clients go over dental care for their pet and help when I can. I have a dental background myself, having worked in the (human) dental industry before starting Susan’s Pampered Pet Care, LLC in 2020. As a result, I'm very big on dental health for everyone! As it turns out, a lot of the same dental issues that people face, animals go through as well.
Practical Tips for Pet Dental Care:
Regular Brushing: Establish a routine of brushing your pet's teeth at least 2-3 times a week using a pet-friendly toothbrush and toothpaste. Start slowly, making it a positive experience for your pet.
Dental Chews and Toys: Provide dental chews and toys designed to promote oral health. These can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup while keeping your pet entertained.
Professional Dental Check-ups: Schedule regular dental check-ups with your veterinarian. Professional cleanings may be necessary to remove stubborn tartar and address any underlying dental issues.
Balanced Diet: Feed your pet a balanced and nutritious diet, as it can contribute to dental health. Special dental diets and treats designed to promote oral hygiene are available and can be incorporated into their daily routine.
In conclusion, a bright and healthy smile is not just for humans; it's equally important for our beloved pets! By prioritizing their dental health through regular care and preventive measures, you can help to ensure your furry friends enjoy a life full of joy, comfort, and overall well-being – not to mention you will notice any potentially major issues much faster if you are brushing and inspecting your pet’s mouth and teeth regularly. It means you are more likely to notice any changes or new developments!
Comments