Don’t Ignore the Drool! How to Manage Your Pet’s Dental Health
Your pet’s sparkling smile is more than just adorable – it’s a crucial indicator of their overall health! Of course, the reverse is true, too: just like in humans, dental problems in pets can lead to pain, discomfort, and even systemic issues.
At Oz Animal Hospital, we see the consequences of neglected dental care far too often. To help you avoid them, we’ve put together the blog post below. Read on to learn how you can spot the signs of dental trouble and better understand the importance of professional veterinary dental care.
Spotting the Signs of Dental Trouble
Our pets can’t tell us when their teeth hurt, so it’s up to us to be vigilant. Below, you’ll find some common signs that your pet may be experiencing dental problems, including:
- Halitosis (Bad Breath): More than just “doggy breath,” persistent bad breath is often the first sign of dental disease.
- Discolored Teeth: A buildup of yellow or brown plaque and tartar on the teeth, especially near the gum line.
- Red, Swollen, or Bleeding Gums: Inflamed gums (gingivitis) are a sign of infection and can be painful.
- Changes in Eating Habits: Difficulty chewing, dropping food, decreased appetite, or favoring one side of the mouth.
- Pawing at the Mouth: A sign that your pet is experiencing pain or discomfort.
- Loose or Missing Teeth: Advanced dental disease can lead to tooth loss.
- Drooling: Excessive drooling may be a sign of oral pain.
Never Neglect Dental Health!
Dental disease in pets is more than just an aesthetic issue. Bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and travel to vital organs, such as the heart, liver, and kidneys, potentially causing serious and even life-threatening infections.
Chronic dental disease can also lead to:
- Tooth Loss
- Jawbone Damage
- Chronic Pain
- Difficulty Eating and Malnutrition
- Systemic Infections
Professional Veterinary Dental Care: The Gold Standard
While at-home care, like brushing, is important, it’s not a substitute for regular professional cleanings. During a veterinary dental procedure, you can expect:
- Anesthesia: To ensure a thorough and pain-free cleaning, your pet will be placed under general anesthesia. Modern anesthesia is very safe, and we use advanced monitoring equipment to ensure your pet’s well-being throughout the procedure.
- Full-Mouth X-rays: Dental X-rays are essential for evaluating the health of the teeth below the gum line, where most dental disease occurs.
- Scaling and Polishing: We use ultrasonic scalers to remove plaque and tartar buildup above and below the gum line, followed by polishing to smooth the tooth surface and deter future plaque accumulation.
- Extractions and Oral Surgery: If necessary, we perform extractions of diseased teeth or other oral surgeries, such as root canal therapy, to address more complex issues.
Post-Procedure Care and Prevention:
After the procedure, we’ll provide you with detailed instructions for at-home care, which may include pain medication, antibiotics, and dietary recommendations. We’ll also discuss strategies for maintaining your pet’s oral health, such as:
- Regular Brushing: Ideally, daily brushing with pet-specific toothpaste.
- Dental Chews and Treats: Choose products that are designed to help reduce plaque and tartar.
- Special Diets: Some diets are formulated to promote dental health.
Investing in your pet’s dental health is an investment in their overall well-being. Keep those fangs and chompers in good working order with some help from the vet your pet would choose!
At Oz Animal Hospital, we’re dedicated to providing top-tier veterinary care that goes beyond traditional standards. Our team takes the time to understand your pet’s lifestyle, habits, and medical history to provide tailored recommendations for vaccines, preventative care, and treatment options. Choose Oz Animal Hospital for exceptional veterinary care that prioritizes your pet’s well-being and your peace of mind! To schedule your appointment, contact us today.