Three Signs Your Pet Might Need a Dental Check Up
Pet Dominion is passionate about making sure that your pet has everything they need to thrive. Pet dental care is an important, but often overlooked, way to keep your furry family in fighting shape. Dental care is an easy way to add quantity and quality to your pet’s life. But do you know if your pet is ready for a dental checkup?
The Importance of Pet Dental Care
Pet dental care is such an important part of caring for our animals because it directly impacts overall health and quality of life.
Poor oral health can lead to painful conditions like gum disease, tooth decay, and even infections. These conditions can make eating and playing difficult for your pet.
If left untreated, dental issues like periodontal disease can allow bacteria from the mouth to enter the bloodstream and spread throughout the body. This can potentially cause severe health problems including heart, liver, or kidney disease.
Regular pet dental care, including home care as well as regular anesthetized professional cleanings can help to prevent these issues, stave off bad breath, and keep your pet feeling comfortable and happy.
Three Signs It’s Time
Now that you know how important pet dental care is for maintaining health, you can understand how recognizing when it’s time for a visit to the dog or cat dentist can prevent discomfort and serious health issues.
There are lots of signs that it is time for a pet dental check up, but the three most common indications include:
- Bad breath — While a mild odor is normal, a persistent smell or very foul odor can indicate dental disease or other oral health problems. If the fish breath is non-relenting, it’s time!
- Difficulty eating — Dropping food, changes in chewing, or reluctance to eat can signal oral pain or damaged teeth that need attention. If your pet exhibits any of these signs, schedule a dental checkup with us to ensure their teeth and gums are healthy.
- Time since their last dental visit — By the age of three, virtually all pets should have an anesthetized dental exam and cleaning. Older pets in general are at greater risk for dental issues, so regular checkups (typically annually) are advisable.
Providing appropriate and proactive dental care for your beloved pet is a great way to show your care for them. Dental health matters, and while pets can certainly survive with unhealthy teeth, our goal is for them to thrive!