Did you know it’s not healthy for pets to have bad breath? This is usually one of the first signs that your furry friend is suffering from dental disease! Bad oral hygiene can lead to serious health issues for your pet. Fortunately, we are here to help you add preventative practices to your pet’s daily routine, so their teeth and gums are as healthy as possible all throughout their life.
What should my pet’s dental preventative care include?
To give your pet shiny teeth and healthy gums here are some steps to keep in mind:
- Brushing their teeth daily. To prevent plaque from forming on their teeth it’s important to brush their teeth regularly. There are pet-safe toothpaste and toothbrushes you can purchase from our online store. Early signs of dental disease can be reversed with at-home care.
- All pets should have annual dental exams. If your pet has the advanced periodontal disease then dental cleanings are the best treatment. A dental cleaning can remove tartar (hardened plaque) from underneath the gum line.
- Give your pet healthy treats that can help clean their teeth. Ask our veterinarians for their recommendation.
- Provide safe toys that won’t harm their teeth. Toys that are too hard can loosen their teeth or even break them.
What happens during a veterinary dental exam/cleaning?
Our hospital offers complete dental cleanings. All dental cleanings are performed under anesthesia so your pet doesn’t feel a thing. With professional cleaning, the bacteria and buildup from the gum are removed. We can also perform dental X-rays to assess below the gum line and determine if your pet will need extractions. At the end of their cleaning, we discuss appropriate at-home care that will bring the best results. To schedule a dental cleaning for your pet, reach out to us at 416-489-8387.
What are signs that my pet need’s a dental exam?
- Yellow or brown buildup on teeth
- Bleeding gums
- Red and swollen gums
- Chewing on one side
- Pawing at the face
- Abnormal chewing
- Loose teeth
