As pet owners, we love seeing our furry friends flash their toothy grins, but did you know that dental health plays a major role in your pet’s overall well-being? Regular dental care is just as important for pets as it is for us. Let’s dive into why veterinary dentistry is so important and how it helps keep your pet healthy and happy.
Why Pet Dentistry Matters
- Prevents Painful Dental Disease
Dental disease is incredibly common in pets, with over 80% of dogs and 70% of cats showing signs of oral disease between the age of 3- 5. This includes issues like gingivitis (gum inflammation) and periodontal disease (infection and damage to the structures that support the teeth). Without treatment, these conditions can cause significant pain and discomfort for your pet. We commonly hear “my pet cannot be in pain since they are eating”. Animals will often eat despite MARKED painful dental disease. - Avoids Tooth Loss
Just like people, pets can lose teeth due to poor oral hygiene. Plaque and tartar buildup can lead to bone decay, mobile teeth, gingival recession infections such as tooth root abscesses, and even tooth loss. Keeping your pets teeth clean helps them maintain a full, healthy smile and keeps them chewing. - Improves Your Pets Overall Health
Did you know that poor dental health can affect your dog's or cat's organs? Good dental hygiene can help keep pets' organs healthy and functioning properly. - Freshens That Breath!
Halitosis or BAD BREATH is a common complaint we hear. Bad breath is often a sign of dental problems, particularly periodontal disease. Regular check-ups and cleanings will not only keep your pet's mouth in tip-top shape but will also keep their breath fresh and pleasant.
Signs Your Pet May Need a Dental Check-up
- Bad breath
- Tartar Build up on their teeth
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Excessive drooling or difficulty eating (though many pets will eat fine despite dental disease)
- Loose or missing teeth
- Changes in behavior, like reluctance to chew or play
If you notice any of these signs, it's time to book an exam so we can get them scheduled for a dental.
What does a dental entail at the Drake Center?
- Thorough exams including probing and dental charting to assess the overall health of your pet's teeth and gums
- Dental cleanings using high-power scalers and other dental tools to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria
- Dental X-rays to identify hidden issues beneath the surface of the gums. Did you know that approximately 60% of your dog's tooth is located under the gums where you cannot see it?
- Tooth extractions if needed, to remove diseased teeth and alleviate pain. We always work with our clients to make recommendations that best suit their pets and situations.
- Home care advice/Videos/Resources to keep your pet's teeth healthy going forward.
These dental health services and check-ups are just not possible with anesthesia-free dentals (as those are just outer cosmetic changes).
The Drake Center for Veterinary Care is an AAHA-accredited animal hospital located in Encinitas, CA. The Drake Center loves being a source of information for all pet owners across the country however if you have any questions regarding pet care and do not live in Encinitas, CA or surrounding cities, we encourage you to contact your local veterinarian.
If you have questions and you'd like to reach out to us, you can call us directly at (760) 452-3190, or you can email us at [email protected]. Don't forget to follow us on social media Facebook, Instagram.