When was the last time you had your pet's teeth cleaned? If you can't remember, or if it's been a while since your furry friend has seen a dentist, it might be time for a check-up. Proper dental care is essential to your pet's overall health. At Peace Arch Veterinary Hospital in Surrey, we would like to answer some common questions about pet dental care.
What Are Common Dental Problems In Pets?
Tartar buildup is among the biggest issues pets have with their teeth. It can lead to gum disease, which is extremely painful and cause other health problems. Other dental issues include tooth fractures, root infections, and tooth resorption (when the body breaks down and absorbs tooth tissue).
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease occurs when there's an infection of the gums tissues around the teeth. It's caused by tartar buildup, which leads to inflammation and bacteria growth. Periodontal disease can be painful for your pet and lead to other health problems, such as kidney disease, heart disease, and respiratory infections.
How Often Should I Get My Pet's Teeth Cleaned?
Your pet's teeth should be cleaned by a veterinarian at least once a year. If your pet has dental problems, the teeth may need to be cleaned more often.
What Happens During A Pet Dental Cleaning?
A pet dental cleaning is similar to a human dental cleaning. The vet will remove tartar and plaque from your pet's teeth, and also polish their teeth. Your pet is given local anesthetics to numb its mouth, and it will be given sedatives to help them relax during the procedure. Anesthesia is used for pet dental care because it's the only way to ensure that your pet will stay still during the cleaning. Additionally, many pets have anxiety when someone is handling their mouth, so anesthesia helps keep them calm.
What Are Common Signs Of Dental Problems?
Common signs of dental issues in pets are varied. These include bad breath, drooling, pawing at the mouth, and eating or drinking less. If you notice any of these signs, it's important to take your pet to the vet for a check-up.
How Can I Prevent Dental Problems?
You can help prevent dental problems by brushing your pet's teeth daily with pet-safe toothpaste. You should also give your pet dental chew toys and treats to help keep their teeth clean. Please note that human toothpaste is not safe for pets so be sure to avoid using that product on your furry friends.
Contact Our Animal Hospital in Surrey
If you have questions or concerns about pet dental care, contact our veterinarians at Peace Arch Veterinary Hospital. We provide a wide range of animal care services for your pets and can help with any problems that arise. Call our team today at (604) 536-3131 or reach us through our website by using our online contact form.
