Your pet’s dental care is an important part of their overall health. Dental issues can not only cause problems in their mouth but other parts of their body like the kidneys and liver. Regular professional cleanings and at-home care help your pet maintain proper dental health and hygiene. If your pet is due for a dental checkup, please contact us at 519-941-6383.
Why does my pet need a dental checkup?
Pets can start developing dental disease as early as 3-years-old. In addition to performing a professional cleaning, our veterinary team will do an oral exam and X-rays to assess your pet’s oral health. During a cleaning, we remove any buildup on the surface of their teeth, as well as below the gumline. Plaque is a mixture of saliva, bacteria and food particles, which can harden into tartar. Tartar and plaque can cause gum (periodontal) disease, which leads to issues like inflamed gums and jaw issues.
What are the signs of gum disease?
Gum disease is assessed on a scale from zero (normal) to four (severe). Depending on where your pet falls and the severity of the infection, you could notice any of the following signs:
- Bad breath
- Broken teeth
- Loss of appetite
- Drooling
- Difficulty chewing
- Bleeding gums
What causes it?
Improper oral hygiene is the main cause of gum disease. It is important to not only ensure your pet gets professional cleanings by our veterinary team, but that you build a regular oral hygiene routine at home. This includes brushing their teeth at least a few times a week, daily if possible. It can be difficult to get your pet used to brushing their teeth at first but making it a regular habit will help them in the long run.
