February is National Pet Dental Health Month, and it’s the perfect time to shine a spotlight on an often-overlooked aspect of pet health: dental care. While many pet owners are diligent about regular check-ups, vaccinations, and a balanced diet, dental health can sometimes fall by the wayside. But did you know that dental disease is one of the most common health issues in both cats and dogs? By the age of three, more than 80% of dogs and 70% of cats have some form of periodontal disease.
At Hill & Harbour Veterinary Center, we believe that a healthy mouth is key to a healthy pet. In this blog post, we’ll explore why dental care is essential for your furry friend, the signs of dental disease, and how you can keep your pet’s teeth in top shape.
Why Is Dental Health Important for Pets?
Just like humans, pets can suffer from a variety of dental problems, including plaque and tartar buildup, gingivitis, and periodontal disease. These issues can cause pain, tooth loss, and even lead to more serious health problems affecting the heart, liver, and kidneys.
1. Preventing Pain and Discomfort
Imagine living with a constant toothache but being unable to tell anyone about it. Pets often suffer in silence, and dental pain can significantly impact their quality of life. Regular dental care helps prevent painful conditions like broken teeth, infections, and inflamed gums.
2. Avoiding Systemic Health Issues
Bacteria from dental infections can enter the bloodstream and affect vital organs, a condition known as bacteremia. This can lead to serious complications such as heart disease (endocarditis), liver infections, and kidney issues. By maintaining good oral hygiene, you’re not just protecting your pet’s mouth, you’re safeguarding their overall health.
3. Maintaining Good Nutrition
Dental pain can make it difficult for pets to chew their food properly, leading to decreased appetite and poor nutrition. In severe cases, pets may lose weight or develop gastrointestinal issues due to inadequate digestion. Healthy teeth and gums ensure your pet can enjoy their meals without discomfort.
Common Signs of Dental Disease in Pets
Since pets can’t tell us when something is wrong, it’s important to recognize the signs of dental problems. Here are some common symptoms to watch for:
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- Bad breath: While “doggy breath” is often joked about, persistent bad breath can be a sign of dental disease.
- Red or bleeding gums: Inflammation or bleeding while chewing is a red flag.
- Yellow or brown tartar buildup: Visible tartar on the teeth indicates poor dental hygiene.
- Difficulty eating or chewing: Pets may drop food, chew on one side, or avoid hard foods altogether.
- Pawing at the mouth or face: This can be a sign of discomfort or pain.
- Loose or missing teeth: Advanced dental disease can cause tooth loss.
- Swelling around the mouth or jaw: This may indicate an abscess or other serious dental issue.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to schedule a dental check-up with your veterinarian.
What Happens During a Pet Dental Exam?
At Hill & Harbour Veterinary Center, we take a comprehensive approach to pet dental care. A typical dental procedure includes:
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- Oral Examination: We begin with a thorough visual inspection of your pet’s mouth, teeth, and gums. This helps identify visible issues like tartar buildup, gum disease, and broken teeth. The oral examination occurs during a separate visit prior to the scheduled dental procedure. Here, we are able to grade the level of dental care needed during the procedure on a scale of 1 – 4.
- Dental X-Rays: Many dental problems are hidden beneath the gumline. Dental radiographs allow us to assess the health of the tooth roots and surrounding bone structure.
- Treatment Planning: If the x-rays reveal any additional issues like tooth decay, fractures, or periodontal disease, we’ll discuss treatment options with you, which may include additional extractions or other procedures not already discussed during the oral examination.
- Professional Cleaning: We perform a dental cleaning under anesthesia. This process includes scaling to remove plaque and tartar, polishing to smooth the tooth surface, and fluoride treatment to strengthen the enamel.
The Importance of Anesthesia in Pet Dental Cleanings
Some pet owners are concerned about the use of anesthesia during dental cleanings, but it’s a critical component of thorough and safe dental care. Anesthesia ensures that your pet remains still and comfortable during the procedure, allowing us to clean below the gumline where most dental disease occurs. It also minimizes stress and pain for your pet.
We take every precaution to ensure the safety of your pet during anesthesia, including pre-anesthetic blood work, monitoring vital signs throughout the procedure, and using the safest anesthetic protocols available.
How to Maintain Your Pet’s Dental Health at Home
While professional dental care is essential, there are many things you can do at home to support your pet’s oral health.
1. Regular Brushing
Brushing your pet’s teeth is the gold standard for preventing dental disease. Use a pet-specific toothbrush and toothpaste—never use human toothpaste, as it can be toxic to pets. Start slowly, allowing your pet to get used to the sensation, and aim to brush daily or at least several times a week.
2. Dental Chews and Toys
There are many dental chews and toys designed to reduce plaque and tartar buildup. Look for products approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) for effectiveness.
3. Special Dental Diets
Some pet foods are formulated to promote dental health by reducing plaque and tartar. These diets can be a helpful addition to your pet’s oral care routine.
4. Regular Check-Ups
Routine veterinary visits are crucial for monitoring your pet’s dental health. We recommend annual dental exams, but pets with a history of dental issues may need more frequent check-ups.
Debunking Common Pet Dental Myths
1. “Bad breath is normal for pets.”
While mild odor is common, persistent bad breath is often a sign of dental disease. If your pet’s breath is consistently unpleasant, it’s time for a dental check-up.
2. “Pets don’t need dental care like humans do.”
Pets are just as susceptible to dental problems as humans, and they benefit greatly from regular dental care. Ignoring dental health can lead to serious health issues down the line.
3. “Dry food cleans my pet’s teeth.”
While dry kibble can help reduce plaque to some extent, it’s not a substitute for regular brushing and professional cleanings. Many pets still develop dental disease despite eating dry food.
4. “If my pet was in pain, I’d know.”
Pets are masters at hiding pain, and dental discomfort often goes unnoticed until it becomes severe. Regular dental exams help catch problems before they cause significant pain.
Why Choose Hill & Harbour Veterinary Center for Your Pet’s Dental Care?
At Hill & Harbour Veterinary Center, we are passionate about providing comprehensive dental care for your pets. Our experienced team uses state-of-the-art equipment and the latest techniques to ensure your pet receives the best possible care. We take the time to explain every step of the process and work with you to create a personalized dental care plan for your pet.
Schedule Your Pet’s Dental Check-Up Today!
National Pet Dental Health Month is the perfect time to focus on your pet’s oral health. Don’t wait until dental disease becomes a serious problem—schedule a dental exam with Hill & Harbour Veterinary Center today. Your pet will thank you with a healthier mouth, a happier demeanor, and lots of fresh-breath kisses. Let’s work together to keep your pet smiling bright!