As pet parents, we do everything we can to keep our four-legged friends happy and healthy—regular vet visits, nutritious food, plenty of exercise. But what about dental care? Just like humans, our pets can develop dental problems that cause discomfort, pain, and even serious health issues if left untreated.
Dental care for your pets is just as important as their regular check-ups and building healthy habits will help prevent common dental diseases.
Common Dental Diseases in Pets
Taking care of your pet’s teeth doesn’t just keep their breath fresh—it’s crucial for their overall health! Untreated dental issues can lead to chronic pain, gum erosion, and even tooth loss. Here are some common dental problems that many pets face:
Periodontal Disease
A serious infection that can lead to tooth and jawbone loss, and it doesn’t stop there—it can spread to vital organs like the heart, liver, and kidneys! The main culprit? Plaque buildup turning into tartar, creating the perfect breeding ground for infection. Look out for bad breath, inflamed gums, or loose teeth, and make sure to consult your vet for treatment.
Gingivitis
This gum disease causes inflammation and discomfort, leading to red, swollen gums, drooling, and bad breath. Caused by poor dental hygiene, gingivitis is preventable and treatable with regular brushing and professional cleanings.
Fractured Teeth
Pets love to chew, but not all chew toys are created equal! Broken teeth can be painful and lead to infections, so always choose safe chew toys for your pet.
Odontoclastic Resorptive Lesions (ORL)
More common in cats, ORLs are painful lesions on the teeth that can cause severe discomfort. If you notice your cat pawing at their mouth or avoiding food, it’s time for a dental check-up.
Dental Disease in Dogs
Did you know that 80% of dogs over the age of three have some form of periodontal disease? Other common dental issues in dogs include unerupted teeth, gingivitis, and deciduous (baby) teeth that haven’t fallen out. If your dog shows signs of discomfort, bad breath, or refuses to play with toys, a trip to the vet is in order. Regular cleanings and good dental care can keep those tails wagging and those teeth sparkling!
Dental Disease in Cats
Cats can be sneaky about their dental pain, often hiding symptoms for months. More than half of cats over the age of three suffer from dental problems, such as gingivitis and stomatitis ( severe inflammation of the gums and tissue) . Be on the lookout for bad breath, swollen gums, or a change in eating habits. Preventative care, like brushing and annual cleanings, can keep your cat purring in comfort!
How to Brush Your Pet’s Teeth (Yes, It’s Important!)
You might be wondering: Do I really need to brush my pet’s teeth? The answer is a big YES! Regular brushing can prevent plaque buildup, freshen their breath, and help you spot early signs of dental issues. Here’s how to make it easier:
Start slowly—introduce the toothbrush gradually and let your pet sniff it first.
Use a pet-friendly toothpaste (never human toothpaste!).
Brush in small, gentle circles around the gums and teeth.
Still struggling? Your vet can give you personalized tips for keeping your pet’s smile bright.
FAQs About Pet Dental Care
Do cats and dogs lose baby teeth? Yes! Just like humans, both cats and dogs go through a teething process where their baby teeth fall out to make way for permanent ones.
How can I check for dental issues at home? Lift your pet’s lips to check their teeth and gums. Look for signs of redness, plaque buildup, or a foul odor. If their gums bleed or you see loose teeth, it’s time to schedule a vet visit.
How often should I bring my pet in for a dental cleaning at the vet office?
Most veterinary dentists recommend that pets should have their teeth cleaned once a year. However, this can largely depend on the breed and if the animal has any pre-existing health conditions. Larger breeds tend to need one dental cleaning per year, or in some cases, less often. Smaller pets sometimes need two visits a year to prevent teeth loss.
What Happens During a Dental Cleaning?
First, your pet will be placed under anesthesia, which helps them relax and stay still during the procedure. Once they're snoozing, the vet team will take dental x-rays to get a clear picture of their entire mouth. These x-rays help identify any hidden issues beneath the surface.
Next up, the vet will check out your pet’s teeth and create a personalized treatment plan. The real magic happens when the veterinary hygienists start scaling the teeth, removing tartar from both the tooth surface and under the gumline, where pesky problems like to hide.
After that, it’s time for a little shine! The teeth are polished and finished off with a fluoride treatment to help strengthen them and fight off plaque.
If any diseased or damaged teeth are found, the vet will either try to preserve them with specialized care or perform extractions if the damage is too severe. Don’t worry—pain relief and antibiotics are sent home with your pet to keep them comfy and happy after the procedure.
Debunking Common Pet Dental Myths
When it comes to your pet's dental care, there's a lot of misinformation out there! Let’s clear up a few common myths to make sure your furry friend’s smile stays healthy and bright:
"My groomer brushes my dog’s teeth, so we're good!"
While your groomer may brush your dog’s teeth, it’s likely only once a month or so. To truly reap the benefits, your dog needs daily brushing to fight off plaque and keep those pearly whites in top shape.
"My spouse is a dental hygienist—they scale the dog’s teeth."
That’s great for tackling tartar buildup, but here’s the kicker: plaque is the real villain behind serious dental problems. Tartar might look bad, but plaque is what causes infections and leads to bigger issues like periodontal disease.
"My dog has a heart murmur, so they can’t go under anesthesia." Actually, your dog’s heart murmur is even more reason to prioritize dental health! It’s important to keep their mouth clean to avoid any infections that could put extra strain on their heart. Of course, you’ll need to be cautious, but the best approach involves getting a referral to a veterinary cardiologist for a consultation. After an echocardiogram, the cardiologist will give the green light (or not) and specific instructions to make anesthesia as safe as possible.
"My dog is too old for anesthesia."
Sure, they’re older, but they’re still living their best life! In fact, untreated dental issues can cause pain that worsens over time. Advanced periodontal disease won’t wait—it will just keep getting worse. While anesthesia can pose some risks for older pets, with proper monitoring and experienced veterinary technicians, the benefits far outweigh the risks in most cases.
Keep Those Smiles Bright
Preventative care is the key to a happy, healthy pet! Regular brushing, safe chew toys, and professional cleanings can help keep your pet’s teeth and gums in top shape. By prioritizing dental care, you’re setting your furry friend up for a lifetime of health and happiness. 🐾
Remember, a healthy mouth means a happy pet—so let’s keep those tails wagging and purrs coming!
