Pet Dental Care is a vital aspect of your pet’s overall health that often goes overlooked. In fact, even though over 60% of Charleston residents have a pet, recent research shows that 73% of dogs and 64% of cats in 2023 were diagnosed by a local vet with dental-related issues. And that also aligns with what we see at our local animal hospital!
Poor dental hygiene in pets can lead to various issues, including:
1
Bad breath
2
Tooth decay
3
Gum disease
4
Malnutrition
5
Discomfort
6
Heart disease
Maintaining your pet’s dental health goes beyond just having clean teeth – dental hygiene is a vital part of pet wellness. Good oral hygiene can prevent more serious health issues:
- Periodontal Disease: If left untreated, dental problems can lead to periodontal disease, which affects 80% of dogs and 70% of cats by age 3.
- Systemic Health Issues: Poor dental health has been linked to increased risk of diabetes, kidney, liver, and heart disease in pets.
By prioritizing your pet’s dental care, you’re contributing to their overall health and potentially extending their lifespan.
Dental Care Techniques Pet Owners Can Do At Home
1. Regular Tooth Brushing
Brushing your pet’s teeth is the most effective way to maintain their dental hygiene.
Aim to brush your pet’s teeth daily, or at least 3-4 times per week. For many dogs, once brushing becomes a part of their daily routine, they will begin to expect and enjoy it. Brushing three times a week is the minimum recommendation to help remove plaque and prevent tartar accumulation.
Use a pet-specific toothbrush and toothpaste, as human products can be harmful to animals.
Focus on the cheek side of the teeth, where plaque tends to accumulate more.
Brushing your pet’s teeth might be stressful for both the pets and owners, so you might want to introduce brushing gradually:
1. Start with short periods of gum massage using your finger.
2. Slowly progress to using a soft-bristled toothbrush.
3. Aim for 30-60 seconds on each side of their mouth.
Pro-Tip: Make it a positive experience by offering rewards and praise.
It is best to teach your dog to accept tooth brushing while he is still a puppy. If you have an older dog, the training process may take a little longer, but it is still worth the effort.
2. Dental Chews and Toys
Dental chews and toys can complement your pet’s oral care routine:
– Offer dental chews and toys designed to clean teeth and massage gums.
– Look for products with the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal of approval
– Always supervise your pet while they’re using chews or toys to prevent choking hazards.
While some dental chews are effective for dogs, these aren’t a replacement for regular toothbrushing or professional dental care routines. Chewing can be frustrating when a pet doesn’t have the right items designed to satisfy the behavior.
Pets may easily find shoes, socks, furniture, or other household objects to work their jaws, gums, and teeth. This not only causes damage to human belongings but may even expose a pet to harm through choking poisoning or gastrointestinal obstruction
3. Dental Diets and Treats
Feeding your pet the right diet can significantly support their dental health. Dry kibble is particularly effective, as it helps scrape away tartar during chewing. Research shows that increasing kibble size by 50% can reduce tartar buildup by 42%.
Additionally, specialized dental diets, such as Hill’s t/d, are clinically proven to reduce plaque, staining, and tartar accumulation, making them a great choice for maintaining oral hygiene.
Consider incorporating dental treats with the VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council) Seal of Acceptance into your pet’s routine. These products have been scientifically tested and proven to reduce plaque and tartar.
To avoid dental problems, steer clear of table scraps and sugary treats, which can contribute to oral health issues.
4. Dental Powders and Water Additives
Dental powders and water additives are simple yet effective ways to support your pet’s oral health. Dental water additives can freshen breath and reduce plaque-building bacteria, with some studies showing a 40% decrease in key sulfur compounds causing bad breath within 28 days. Similarly, dental powders added to your pet’s food can promote healthier teeth and fresher breath, offering a great alternative for pets resistant to brushing.
While these products are helpful, they should complement—not replace—regular tooth brushing and professional dental care.
5. Regular Gum Checks
Caring for your pet’s gums is just as important as maintaining their teeth. While brushing, gently massage their gums to stimulate blood flow and promote gum health. Keep an eye out for redness or inflammation, which could signal dental problems. Healthy gums should appear pink and smooth, while dental disease may present as yellow-brown tartar and red, swollen gums.
Be alert for signs like swelling, bleeding, or receding gums, as these may indicate serious issues requiring prompt veterinary attention. In rare cases, unusual gum conditions could be a sign of parasitic worm infections, so it’s always best to consult with your veterinarian if you notice any concerning changes.
Professional Pet Dental Care
Even with diligent at-home care, professional dental cleanings are essential:
Why Vet Visits Are Essential?
Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are essential for your pet dental care protocol. Professional cleanings effectively remove tartar buildup that brushing can’t eliminate, preventing more serious dental issues.
Depending on your pet’s specific needs, cleanings may be necessary once or twice a year. With 70% of adult cats and 80% of adult dogs experiencing dental diseases, these routine visits play a crucial role in ensuring their overall health and well-being.
What to Expect at Exams?
During a dental exam, your veterinarian will check for issues like broken teeth, swollen or receding gums, bleeding, or loose teeth. If needed, they may recommend dental X-rays to detect hidden problems and assess your pet’s periodontal health.
These X-rays are invaluable for uncovering underlying dental diseases that might not be visible during a standard examination, ensuring comprehensive care for your pet’s oral health.
Professional Cleaning Process
A professional dental cleaning ensures your pet’s oral health is thoroughly addressed. It involves general anesthesia, allowing for a stress-free and pain-free experience during the procedure.
The process includes ultrasonic scaling to remove tartar, polishing to smooth tooth surfaces and detailed charting to identify periodontal pockets, gum recession, or increased tooth mobility. This comprehensive care helps maintain your pet’s dental and overall well-being.
Tips for Successful Pet Dental Care
1. Start Early
Begin dental care practices while your pet is young to help them become accustomed to having their teeth brushed and mouth examined. It is best to teach your dog to accept tooth brushing while he is still a puppy. If you have an older dog, the training process may take a little longer, but it is still worth the effort.
2. Be Patient
It may take time for your pet to adjust to dental care routines. Introduce new practices gradually and consistently.
3. Make it a Positive Experience for Pets
Always associate dental care with positive experiences. Use rewards and praise to encourage good behavior. For many dogs, once brushing becomes a part of their daily routine, they will begin to expect and enjoy it.
4. Stay Consistent
Regular care is key to preventing dental issues. Stick to your chosen routine as much as possible. Brushing three times a week is the minimum recommendation to help remove plaque and prevent tartar accumulation.
5. Monitor for Changes
Regularly inspect your pet’s mouth for signs of dental problems, such as bad breath, yellow or brown tartar buildup, and red or swollen gums. Healthy gums should be pink and smooth. If your pet has dental disease, they’ll have hard, yellow-brown tartar on their teeth and red, inflamed gums.
6. Provide Fresh Water
Ensure your pet always has access to clean, fresh water. This helps wash away food debris and bacteria from your pet’s mouth after eating.
Who are We: Coastal Creek Animal Hospital in Summerville, SC
At Coastal Creek Animal Hospital, we believe that being proactive and responsible is one of the best ways to keep your pet safe from harm. That is why we recommend becoming familiar with basic dental care tips and not skipping your regular veterinary visits. Summerville is an incredible place to have a pet which is why over 60% of residents have them. By educating our neighbors on how to spot and protect their pets, we hope to contribute and extend the lifelong companionship that everyone hoped for.
Our experienced team, led by the compassionate Dr. Mack, provides tailored health plans beyond pet dental care that cater to the unique needs of your furry family members. If it’s been a while since your last visit or you’d like to come in please do so. We are qualified to deliver everything from routine wellness exams to advanced diagnostic services and a whole suite of surgeries. We are committed to ensuring your pets receive the best care possible in a welcoming healthcare environment.
Take the first step towards a healthier, happier pet today! Schedule an appointment with us and experience the difference that dedicated veterinary care can make. Your pet deserves it!
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I introduce dental care to my pet if they’re already grown?
Introduce dental care gradually. Start by letting your pet lick pet-friendly toothpaste off your finger, then move to a soft toothbrush or finger brush. Keep sessions short, use praise and rewards, and aim to brush 2-3 times a week, increasing to daily as they adjust. Patience and consistency are key.
What are the risks of not brushing my pet’s teeth regularly?
Without regular brushing, pets risk dental disease, bad breath, tooth loss, and eating pain. Bacteria from poor dental health can lead to serious conditions like heart, liver, or kidney problems.
Are there specific dental toys that are more effective than others?
Effective toys include rubber toys for plaque removal, rope toys for flossing, and fillable toys with pet-safe toothpaste. Look for VOHC-approved products for the best results.
How do I know if my pet needs a professional dental cleaning?
Signs include bad breath, tartar buildup, red gums, difficulty eating, pawing at the mouth, or drooling. Annual cleanings are recommended, but consult your vet for tailored advice.
What are the benefits of dental diets for pets?
Dental diets help reduce plaque, freshen your breath, and support oral health. They can lessen the need for professional cleanings and easily supplement regular care.
