Presenting the Facts About Pet Dental Health

If it’s about your dog’s overall health, dental cleaning is as essential as a healthy diet and regular visits to the vet. According to experts, many dogs suffer from periodontal disease before they age three. The inflammation of the tissues that hold the teeth in place is called periodontal disease. Infections caused by bacteria can cause tooth loss and heart, kidney, or lung problems as your dog ages.

It’s a fact that all dogs smell foul; consequently, pet owners often miss the first sign of periodontal disease. This is the smell of their pet’s breath. Maintaining your dog’s teeth and gums healthy prevents periodontal disease.

Correcting Myths on Pet Dental Health

When we talk about our pets’ dental health, it’s an area that frequently confuses people. There is much false information available on how to take care of your dog’s teeth. In this article, we’ll eliminate some of the most common misconceptions regarding the health of your pet’s teeth by revealing the truth.

1. Bad teeth only give bad breath.

Oral diseases have been linked to various systemic illnesses, like hepatic and cardiovascular disease. Uncontrolled dental conditions can cause damage to other organs, like the heart and liver if they are not treated. These infections can cause problems with the heart valve and inflammation of the liver. Dental issues in diabetic animals could cause problems in controlling glucose levels. 

You can contact your veterinarian, or you can also click this link to learn more about how you can care for your pet’s oral health. 

2. Toys and dental chews can be used to replace brushing.

Although chewing gum and toys can help remove some of the plaque that accumulates on your pet’s teeth, they aren’t able to replace regular brushing by using toothpaste designed specifically for pets. It is possible to ensure that your pet’s teeth are clean by brushing them. The toothpaste contains ingredients that aid in the cleaning process. If your pet isn’t happy with a toothbrush in their mouth, applying some toothpaste for pets and gauze to clean their teeth can eliminate the majority of plaque.

3. Dental disease is only a problem for old pets.

According to the experts, 80% of dogs and 70% of cats suffer from dental disease before age 3. Therefore, regular dental checkups, cleaning, and professional cleanings must be initiated from an early age. When your pet is examined every year, the vet should conduct an oral examination and inform you if there’s something that requires to be addressed. 

It is known that genetics play a significant role in the health of your teeth. Hence even young animals might be suffering from severe dental disease and must be checked regularly. Aside from your pet’s dental health, you can also ask your vet for information and advice about other important aspects of your patient’s health like pet vaccinations and parasite prevention. 

4. Bones are great for my pet’s teeth.

Antlers, bones, and rawhide aren’t all good for your pet’s teeth, contrary to what you might think. Antlers and bones, which are especially hard, could cause your pet’s teeth to crack or break, even though any chewing activity can aid in scraping away plaque. It can occur to any dog; however, puppies and older dogs are more at risk because the teeth of these breeds are less sturdy. 

The dog could be unable to chew rawhide, antlers, or small pieces of bone that fall off when chewing. An intestinal or stomach puncture created by swallowing sharp objects could be fatal.

5. A dental cleaning that isn’t anesthesia-free is safe for my dog.

It’s much more dangerous for pets to undergo dental procedures without anesthetics. Squirming and anxiety are nearly impossible to avoid if your pet hasn’t been treated with an anesthetic before the procedure. Any movement, regardless of how small, could cause severe injury and discomfort throughout the procedure. 

Before the procedure, your vet will conduct a series of tests to determine if your pet is a suitable potential candidate to receive anesthesia. Your vet will inform you whether they believe anesthesia is dangerous for your pet and suggest a different option. You can check here to learn more about dental procedures and other surgical services offered by reputable veterinary surgeons in your locality.