What Your Pet Can’t Tell You About Dental Pain—and How We Can Help

Pet Dental Health Month is here. It may not be at the forefront of most people's minds when considering their pet's health, such as vaccinations, diet, and exercise. Still, at the same time, dental health should not be overlooked, as the prevalence of dental disease among pets has made it a very common, if not the most prevalent, health issue facing canines and felines. We want to share our message about how maintaining good oral hygiene in animals plays a vital role in helping them live longer and more comfortable lives with their owners.

🐾 Dental Health is Important!

Most pets show evidence of dental problems as early as three years old, with plaque and tartar being the source of not only bad breath but also:

• painful infections of the gums

• loose or broken teeth

• difficulty eating

• Bacteria getting into the bloodstream can go on to infect the heart, liver, and kidneys.

Pets are excellent at concealing pain; consequently, dental problems often become severe conditions before any noticeable symptoms appear.

🦷 Symptoms of Pet Dental Disease

Dental disease can cause a variety of symptoms. Signs and symptoms of dental disease include the following:

• Bad breath that persists.

• Swollen and inflamed gums, along with bleeding gums.

• Significant amounts of plaque on its teeth (plaque is the brownish or yellowish material).

• Prefers to eat only on one side of its mouth or drops food when it is eating.

• Struggles to keep his/her mouth open.

• No longer interested in food or has shown signs of significant behavioral changes.

Dental care can help ensure that your pet feels comfortable and has a better life.

🩺 What Is Involved With Professional Dental Care?

Professional dental care is much more than brushing your dog's or cat's teeth, which includes:

• Complete oral assessment and treatment of both above and below the gumlines.

• Use of dental X-ray technology to assess for hidden dental disease.

• Full professional scaling and polishing of the pet's teeth.

• Providing dental treatment to any heavily infected or painful teeth, if necessary.

Our priority when providing dental care for your pet is to keep your pet safe and comfortable during the entire procedure.

💚 How To Avoid Developing Dental Disease At Home

All those days spent brushing your dog's teeth, using dental chews and food (that feature the Veterinary Oral Health Council’s seal of approval), and showing up for necessary wellness inspections make a positive impact on your pet's quality of life.

This is true for all pets, and those without dental disease experience improved overall body condition and comfort due to their mouth being in optimal health.

When I say that "the healthier your pet’s mouth, the happier your pet," I mean that dental care should not just be about vanity; rather, it is a way of showing affection to your pet. A healthy mouth results in better nutrition and mass and more enjoyment through the means (tail wag or purr) that your pet expresses. Your pet will look forward to going for walks because they will feel better and be more likely to continue running between their home and your car, or even jumping from the couch with their toy—this adds to your bond.