Most people see the dentist once or twice a year for routine cleanings, x-rays, and preventative care. We know that dental care is a major part of our wellness routine, but did you know that pets need dental care too? Many pet owners don’t talk about how important it is for them to take care of the dental needs of their four-legged friends, and the truth is, pet dental care goes a long way. for your dog or cat than you might think.
Below, we’ll discuss the importance of dental pet care, and why the next time you go to schedule your next dentist appointment, you should also schedule one for your pet.
What is Pet Dental Care?
Veterinary dentistry is similar to what we experience when we go to the dentist. This includes cleaning, filing, extractions, fixing and adjusting teeth, and x-rays.
X-rays are key to pet dental care because many diseases can occur below the gum line and can only be seen on x-rays. It is common practice for your pet to be put under anesthesia while having their teeth cleaned, but rest assured that it is completely safe. Precautions are taken to ensure that your pet will handle the anesthesia properly.
Why does your cat or dog need anesthesia for teeth cleaning? This allows veterinarians to do the most thorough work. When people go to the dentist, they understand why they are there and what to expect, but unfortunately, fur babies do not. This can lead them to become anxious or aggressive if they are not calmed down.
Why Do Pets Need Dental Care Too?
Taking care of your pets’ dental health is also part of taking care of their overall health. Eighty percent of dogs and 70% of cats have periodontal disease by the time they are two years old. Periodontal disease is dangerous for pets; this can lead to inflammation and infection in the blood, which can infect your pet’s organs, create holes in their mouths, and cause a broken jaw.
Regular pet dental care allows your vet to monitor any changes in their health, keep their mouths clean, and also prevent tooth loss and bad breath. It is recommended that you do routine pet dental care once a year.
What Can Happen Without Pet Dental Care?
Neglecting your pet’s dental care needs can lead to illness, disease, and even death. When your pet’s dental needs are not taken care of, the following common issues arise:
-
Mouth sores. Oral pain is more difficult to diagnose, and it can lead to decreased appetite, drooling, or swelling and bleeding.
-
Diabetes. Pets with diabetes have a higher risk for dental disease, and that in turn can cause their diabetes to worsen. It’s a vicious cycle that can spiral out of control very quickly.
-
Cardiovascular disease. Uncontrolled dental disease can lead to inflammation of your pet’s heart and liver, which can lead to early death.
-
The immune system is compromised. If your pet has a toothache, it can cause an immune system response. When left unchecked, their immune systems focus only on their mouths, preventing them from fighting other diseases and infections in other parts of the body.
How to Find Affordable Pet Dental Care
One reason many pet owners put off regular checkups for their pets is because of a preconceived notion that pet care is expensive. But affordable pet care is available.
One way to avoid costs is to develop a regular brushing routine at home. It helps keep plaque and tarter down and can reduce gingivitis and other gum and mouth diseases. The cost of dental pet care will vary from clinic to clinic, but there are ways to minimize the impact on your wallet. You can sign up for pet insurance, find promotional savings from your local vet, or ask about a payment or financing plan with your vet. At the end of the day, the cost of preventive care for your best friend is worth the few extra years it will add to their life.
Pet Dental Care Near You
You know how to take care of your cat or dog; give them lots of love, feed them a healthy diet, give them regular exercise, play with them, and now you know how to add pet dental care to your routine. To schedule your pet’s next dental cleaning with a pet dentist, contact our team at Forever Vets today!
Copyright 2024 by WJXT News4JAX – All rights reserved.
