February is Pet Dental Health Month, and it’s the perfect time to discuss why your pet’s dental health is so important!

Just like humans, pets need proper dental care to maintain overall health. Dental disease is one of the most common medical conditions seen by veterinarians, with studies showing that by the age of three, most dogs and cats exhibit signs of periodontal disease. If left untreated, dental disease can lead to serious health problems, including heart, liver, and kidney issues.

Why Pet Dental Health Matters

You might not think much about your pet’s teeth until you notice bad breath, but dental health is much more than fresh breath. Dental disease can cause:

  • Pain and Discomfort: Imagine having a constant toothache! Pets can’t tell us when they’re in pain, but dental disease can make eating and playing uncomfortable.
  • Infection Risks: Bacteria from dental disease can enter the bloodstream, affecting major organs.
  • Tooth Loss: Severe dental disease can lead to teeth falling out or needing extraction.
  • Impact on Overall Health: The connection between dental health and organ function is significant. Keeping your pet’s mouth healthy can improve their overall quality of life.

Signs of Dental Disease in Pets

It can be hard to know when your pet is experiencing dental problems. Keep an eye out for:

  • Bad Breath: Persistent bad breath can indicate a problem.
  • Difficulty Eating: Chewing on one side, dropping food, or showing reluctance to eat can be signs of pain.
  • Swollen or Bleeding Gums: Healthy gums should be pink, not red or swollen.
  • Excessive Drooling: This can indicate discomfort or pain in the mouth.
  • Pawing at the Mouth: Pets may try to relieve dental pain by pawing at their mouths.

Preventing Dental Disease: Professional and At-Home Care

1. Schedule Regular Check-Ups

At Easthampton Animal Hospital, we perform oral exams as part of your pet’s overall health check-up. During the visit, our veterinary team will thoroughly evaluate your pet’s mouth, teeth, and gums to catch any potential issues early. It’s impossible to know what’s happening in the mouth without dental radiographs and probing, which is why a complete oral health assessment and treatment under anesthesia is recommended; a complete oral health assessment and treatment will remove tartar and plaque that can lead to dental disease. 

2. Complete Oral Health Assessment and Treatment

Sometimes, at-home care isn’t enough. A complete oral health assessment and treatment under anesthesia allow us to clean below the gum line where most dental disease occurs. This process is safe and effective, and it gives us the opportunity to assess the health of each tooth.

3. Establish an At-Home Dental Care Routine

There are several ways you can help maintain your pet’s dental health at home:

  • Brush Your Pet’s Teeth: Use pet-specific toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush. Start slowly and make it a positive experience.
  • Provide Dental Chews and Toys: These can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup.
  • Incorporate Dental Health Products: Water additives, dental diets, and oral rinses can support a healthy mouth.

4. Offer a Healthy Diet

Feeding your pet a balanced diet contributes to dental health. Special dental diets can also reduce plaque buildup.

Take Action This Pet Dental Health Month!

Regular dental care is essential to keeping your pet healthy and happy. This February, as we celebrate Pet Dental Health Month, take a moment to check your pet’s dental hygiene. If it’s been a while since their last dental exam, schedule an appointment with us at Easthampton Animal Hospital.

Together, we can help your pet maintain a bright and healthy smile for years to come!