One of the most important factors in the overall health of your pet is their oral hygiene. What would your teeth look like and how would your mouth feel if you did not brush your teeth or visit the dentist?
The result of neglecting oral hygiene is the same for people as it is for pets that do not have their teeth regularly brushed at home and cleaned by a veterinarian.
How does dental disease in pets begin?
At any given time, as well as after eating, your pet’s mouth is full of bacteria. These bacteria will begin to form a film on the teeth, known as plaque. Over time, the plaque hardens into tartar and is bound to the teeth. Without brushing and cleaning, these bacteria and tartar will begin to take a toll on your pet’s mouth, spreading to places under the gum line and causing problems for both the gums as well as the teeth. Left untreated, the bacteria will continue to cause painful problems including sore gums and tooth decay. Long-term neglect can result in extreme mouth and tooth pain, as well as damage to the liver, kidneys and heart of a pet.
Possible signs of dental disease in pets include:
- Bad breath
- Reluctance to eat
- Blood in the mouth
- Face sensitivity, where the pet no longer allows you to touch their face or mouth
- Teeth that are discolored and are no longer white
- Missing teeth
Remember that periodontal disease can still exist even if you do not notice these signs in your pet. To insure proper oral health, brushing at home combined with regular cleaning by a veterinarian must be done on a regular basis.
Dr. Sandifar has cared for the dental needs of hundreds of pets in the Gulf Coast area, and she can bring her experience and compassion to your pet. Dr. Sandifar will also instruct you on how to improve your pet’s hygiene at home, as well as determine proper foods to help keep their mouth healthy. Call one of our caring team members and schedule your pet’s dental appointment at Gulf Coast Veterinary Hospital.