Our pet dental cleaning services provide thorough cleanings, plaque removal, and gum care to ensure your pet’s oral health. One of our clients brought in her dog, Max, who was experiencing bad breath and difficulty chewing. Max’s condition improved after a comprehensive dental cleaning, and his breath became noticeably fresher.
Maintain your pet’s oral hygiene with professional pet dental care services to keep them healthy and happy.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through why pet dental care is essential, common issues to look out for, how to care for your pet’s teeth at home, and when to turn to professional services.
Why Is Pet Dental Care Important?
We all know how bad oral hygiene can affect our health. For pets, it’s no different. Keeping their teeth clean goes beyond avoiding bad breath. It’s essential for their overall well-being.
Health Impacts of Poor Dental Hygiene
Poor dental hygiene leads to plaque and tartar buildup in pets. Plaque is a sticky substance that forms on teeth after eating, and if not cleaned, it hardens into tartar. Tartar irritates the gums and leads to gum disease (gingivitis or periodontal disease). Left untreated, gum disease can result in tooth loss, pain, and infections that spread to vital organs like the heart, liver, and kidneys.
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), 80% of dogs and 70% of cats show signs of dental disease by age three. This statistic shocked me when I first learned it, and it made me realize how critical preventive care is for our pets.
Common Dental Problems in Pets
Pets are prone to dental issues, especially if they don’t receive proper oral care. Some common problems include:
Plaque and Tartar: Plaque forms when food particles and bacteria build up on the teeth. If not removed, it hardens into tartar, leading to gum irritation.
Gum Disease (Periodontitis): Gum is one of pets’ most common dental issues. It starts with inflammation of the gums and can progress to tooth loss if untreated.
Broken or Loose Teeth: Pets, especially dogs, love to chew on anything and everything, which can lead to broken or loose teeth.
How to Maintain Your Pet’s Teeth at Home
While professional cleanings are necessary, maintaining an at-home pet dental care routine can help keep your pet’s teeth and gums healthy between vet visits.
Daily Brushing
Brushing your pet’s teeth daily using a pet-safe toothbrush and toothpaste would be best. Never use human toothpaste, as it contains ingredients that can harm pets. My cat, Luna, wasn’t too keen on the toothbrush at first, but after introducing it gradually with some tasty toothpaste, she tolerated it like a champ.
Dental Chews and Toys
Dental chews can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup; most pets love them! Plenty of chew toys are designed to promote dental health by gently scraping the teeth while they chew.
Even with diligent at-home care, pets still need professional dental cleanings to keep their teeth in top condition. Vets recommend having your pet’s teeth professionally cleaned at least once a year, though some pets may require more frequent cleanings based on their dental health.
At Pawsisters Pet Clinic, we offer a thorough pet dental cleaning process that includes scaling to remove plaque and tartar, polishing, and an overall dental checkup.
What Happens During a Dental Cleaning at the Vet?
You might be wondering what to expect when you bring your pet in for a professional cleaning. Typically, the process involves:
- Pre-cleaning Exam: The vet will assess your pet’s oral health and determine the extent of cleaning needed.
- Anesthesia: Pets are placed under general anesthesia to keep them calm and still during the procedure.
- Plaque and Tartar Removal: The vet uses special tools to remove plaque and tartar from your pet’s teeth.
- Polishing: Once the cleaning is done, your pet’s teeth are polished to smooth out any rough areas.
- Post-Cleaning Care: Your vet will provide guidance on how to care for your pet’s teeth post-cleaning.