Hand Brushing Dogs Tooth for Dental Care
As a pet owner, you know the importance of keeping your furry companion healthy and happy. Regular visits to the veterinarian are essential to ensure their physical and emotional well-being. However, what about their dental health? Did you know that dental care is just as crucial as any other aspect of their overall health? In this article, we will discuss four things you probably didn’t know about vet dental care.
According to the American Veterinary Dental Society, dental disease is a most commonly diagnosed health problem in pets i.e., dogs and cats. Just like humans, pets can suffer from various dental diseases, including tartar buildup, gingivitis, and periodontal disease. These conditions can cause pain, bad breath, tooth loss, and even systemic diseases such as heart and kidney disease. Therefore, it’s crucial to schedule regular dental checkups for your pets.
Did you know that brushing your pet’s teeth is the most effective way to prevent dental disease? Although it may seem challenging to brush your pet’s teeth, it’s an essential part of keeping their teeth and gums healthy. You can use a soft-bristled toothbrush designed specifically for pets and toothpaste with flavors they enjoy. It’s essential to introduce toothbrushing gradually, and with positive reinforcement like treats.
The type of food your pet eats is also essential for their dental health. Feeding your pet a diet high in sugar and carbohydrates can contribute to plaque buildup on their teeth, leading to dental disease. On the other hand, feeding your pet a diet rich in protein, fiber, and vitamins can help prevent dental disease. Additionally, certain foods, such as crunchy vegetables and fruits, can help clean their teeth and massage their gums.
Some pet owners opt for anesthesia-free dental cleaning, thinking it’s a safer and less expensive option. However, it’s essential to know that anesthesia-free cleaning is not as effective as cleaning under anesthesia. During an anesthesia-free cleaning, the pet is not fully immobilized, making it difficult to clean under the gum line, where bacteria and tartar build up. Furthermore, an anesthesia-free cleaning can only remove tartar on the surface and does not address any underlying dental problems like cavities or gum disease.
In conclusion, the dental care is an essential aspect of your pet’s overall health. Regular dental checkups, brushing their teeth, a balanced diet, and cleaning under anesthesia are crucial for preventing dental diseases in pets. As pet owners, it’s our responsibility to take care of our pets’ health and well-being, and oral hygiene should not fall behind.
By Hannah Whittenly
who is a freelance writer.
Member since November, 2022
View all the articles of Hannah Whittenly.