Keeping Your Pet’s Teeth Clean Is Important to Their Overall Health

Pet teeth cleaning will help keep your pet healthy. Healthy teeth are important not just for the mouth but for overall health. During the annual exam, the vet will examine the pet’s mouth to make sure that everything is okay. A pet dentist can examine the pet’s dental condition to ensure that the animal remains healthy. Dental X-rays can help detect issues below the gum line that can result in serious health complications. 

 

Pet Oral Health

According to animal experts, more than 80 percent of pets develop periodontal disease by the age of three years. This is why it is important to ensure that pets get routine dental cleaning by the time they are two years. Periodontal disease is a condition that affects the tissue around the teeth. This progressive disease can lead to early tooth loss, leaving your pet unable to eat properly. If left untreated, a dental infection can affect the heart and kidneys, leading to organ failure. 

 

Preventing Tooth Loss

When bacteria in the pet’s teeth combine with food particles and minerals in saliva, it can lead to plaque formation. Plaque is a hard substance that forms on the surface of the tooth. The bacteria find their way under the gums, causing gingivitis or gum inflammation. The bacteria will destroy the tissue surrounding the teeth, causing tooth loss. Losing teeth can cause challenges when it comes to feeding, which can lead to illness.

 

When You Need a Pet Dentist

Some signs will let you know that you need the services of a pet dentist. Your pet should visit a vet if you notice any signs of loose or broken teeth. Bad breath, retained baby teeth, and teeth covered by a discolored substance are also issues to look out for. 

 

If your pet is drooling or chewing excessively, or if he keeps dropping food when eating, you should see a vet. Pain or swelling in the mouth, bleeding or decreased appetite can also point to a dental issue. You should always visit a vet if you notice changes in your pet’s behavior.

 

Professional Teeth Cleaning 

When you take your pet for professional dental cleaning, he will be put under anesthesia. This is done to ensure that the animal remains still during the procedure. Thorough examination and cleaning can only be conducted effectively when the pet is still and quiet. The pet dentist will clean the teeth after taking X-rays that will help to detect any gum health issues. The pet may have to remain at the vets’ clinic overnight as he will be groggy from the anesthesia.

 

Daily Teeth Cleaning

You need to play a role in ensuring that your pet maintains good oral health. Cleaning your pet’s teeth at home is important. You need a pet toothbrush and pet toothpaste for daily care. Vets recommend that you try to brush your pet’s teeth at least once a day. 

 

Using pleasant-tasting toothpaste will go a long way in making the process easier. Most of the kinds of toothpaste are flavored. You can also get dental chews that can help to keep the teeth clean and the breath fresh. Keeping your pet’s teeth clean will go a long way in ensuring good overall health.

 

To learn more about teeth cleaning for pets, contact Kankakee Animal Hospital in Kankakee, Illinois at (815) 332-0600 to book an appointment today!