Pet Dental Care

Regular dental care does more than just keep your pet's breath fresh and clean. Dental hygiene is an important part of your pet's preventative health care regimen. Dental problems, if left untreated, can often lead to larger systemic problems in your pet due to oral bacteria entering the blood stream and damaging the kidneys, heart and liver.

In fact, it is estimated that more than 80 percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats develop tooth and gum disease by the age of three years. However, dental disease and its serious consequences can be avoided by bringing your pet to your veterinarian for regular dental check-ups and teeth cleanings.

Some signs of dental problems include:

• Bad breath—one of the first signs of dental disease
• A yellowish-brown crust of plaque on the teeth near the gum line
• Red and swollen gums
• Pain or bleeding when your pet eats or when the mouth or gums are touched
• Decreased appetite or difficulty eating
• Loose or missing teeth

Prevention: The Best Medicine

Dental care does not end with a visit to your veterinarian. You need to continue proper dental care at home. Brushing your pet's teeth is an important part of home dental care. Any of our veterinary technicians or assistants can show you the proper method of brushing your pet's teeth.