Pet Dental Care

Dental hygiene is as important for dogs and cats as it is for human beings. Just like in people, your pet’s teeth can gather plaque after eating. When plaque builds up and hardens it becomes a coarse brown substance called tartar. As tartar accumulates it can work its way under the gums and cause painful infections, gum disease and damage to vital organs.

Veterinarians recommend that owners brush their pet’s teeth at least twice a week to keep the buildup of tartar at a minimum. Most pet supply stores carry specially designed toothbrushes and toothpaste just for pets. Remember that a pet’s sense of taste and smell is far more acute than that of a human and human toothpaste may not appeal to a pet. Many stores carry toothbrushes, toothpaste and wipes for your furry friends.

If you cannot brush your pet’s teeth regularly you can care for their teeth by providing crunchy treats. A dog’s natural tendency to chew is a built-in dental care mechanism. Dog biscuits break into small chunks when chewed and rub against the teeth, providing a cleaning service. There is no substitute for brushing your pet’s teeth, but if you cannot do that, make sure they get some sort of crunchy dog treat on a regular basis.

Pets that do not receive proper dental care and do not have access to crunchy treats run the risk of several types of mouth disease. These can be as mild as gingivitis (a gum disease that results in swollen, inflamed gums) and as serious as a bacterial infection that can spread through the dog’s bloodstream causing damage to vital organs. You owe it to yourself and your dog to take care of his teeth.

Dental services are available for pets, just as they are for people. Their teeth can be filled, capped, and extracted if necessary, just like yours. The best course of action, however, is to avoid the need for such services by properly caring for your pet’s teeth. If you can avoid unnecessary pain and discomfort for your furry friend, you should do so. Preventative dental care can save you money as well as dental procedures can be quite costly.