Who knew? 5 shocking reasons why dental care is important for pets
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Humans brush their teeth twice a day to prevent the risk of tooth decay, cavities, and gum diseases. It’s essential to extend this care to pets as well since dental cleaning is equally important for pets as well. But how often do you brush your pet’s teeth? Probably not even twice a week. We have highlighted reasons why you need to prioritize your pet’s dental care. Keep reading to learn more about it.
Regular Dental Cleaning Prevents Tooth Loss
- Regular dental cleaning ensures that the supporting structures of teeth stay strong and in good condition. In addition, healthy teeth and gums make it simpler for pets to eat and chew their food.
However, neglecting dental cleaning could lead to the accumulation of bacteria and plaque, causing the supporting structures of teeth to become infected or damaged. If left untreated, this can result in their teeth becoming loose or falling out altogether. Moreover, untreated dental concerns can lead to eating difficulties, potentially causing malnutrition or other health issues.
Avoid Premature Tooth Loss
- Although some natural tooth loss is expected in dogs, excessive loss of adult teeth might indicate an underlying weakness or infection in the supporting structures along the gumline.
The key to preventing this is to identify and address vulnerable teeth before they become loose. Keep in mind that dental care is an investment in a pet’s overall well-being. The sooner you detect and address issues, the healthier your dog will likely be in the long run.
Prevents The Risk of Bacteremia
- Unchecked bacterial growth can have far-reaching consequences for the entire body, potentially posing serious risks. Bacteria responsible for plaque can enter the bloodstream, resulting in a condition known as bacteremia. This condition involves the spread of bacteria to organs such as the heart, kidneys, and liver.
Understanding how to maintain your dog’s or cat’s dental hygiene is crucial for protecting their well-being. Animals often hide their discomfort, even if they are suffering. Consistent dental care for cats and dogs guarantees your pet can live a fulfilling and pain-free life.
Early Identification of Oral Cancer
- Regular dental cleanings play a vital role in identifying oral cancer in your dog, often before any symptoms become apparent. During dental examination, signs of oral cancer can be detected.
Once the signs are observed, a team of veterinary technicians promptly diagnoses and initiates treatment for your pet. This proactive approach is particularly crucial for dogs, as early detection significantly enhances the likelihood of a complete recovery.
Lowers Risk of Digestive Problems
- Without regular teeth cleaning, food particles and bacteria can accumulate in the mouth, increasing the likelihood of various digestive issues. Regular check-ups can mitigate this risk and alleviate symptoms like gas and bloating.
Fresh Breath and Enhanced Hygiene
- Regular dental check-ups offer an advantage by eliminating odor-causing food remnants and bacteria from your dog’s mouth. Thorough cleaning of your dog’s teeth and gum line effectively eliminates bad breath resulting from germs and bacteria.
Prevents Tooth and Gum Disease
Like humans, dogs are susceptible to tooth and gum disease, including conditions like periodontitis, which can cause significant pain and discomfort for your pet. Initially, it targets the gingiva, a condition referred to as gingivitis. Without intervention, the disease advances, spreading to the tooth socket and causing bone destruction.
The resultant loss of bone leads to gradual tooth loosening and tooth loss. Regular dental cleanings are essential for reducing plaque and tartar accumulation as they aid in addressing tooth and gum disease before it progresses to a severe stage.
For professional teeth cleaning of your pet, book an appointment with Autumn Trails and Veterinary Center. We perform various dental services to help keep your pet’s mouth looking and feeling great. We are located in Charlottesville, VA. Appointments are conveniently available; call us at (434) 971-9800.
