The Importance of Pet Dental Care

Just like people, pets should get regular dental care. But even the most well-meaning pet owners often overlook dental care and don’t realize how important it can be. Animals cannot talk or brush their teeth, and pet owners are often at a loss as to how best to approach pet dental care.

A veterinarian or veterinary dentist is the best place to start when it comes to forming a dental care plan for a pet. They can do teeth cleaning in much the same way people get when they go to their dentist. The vet will remove plaque and assess gum health. Sometimes, pets damage or lose teeth. The vet will also recommend ways that pet owners can help maintain good dental health with their pets at home. Pet dental care is so important. Here is why.

It Impacts Overall Health

Just like humans, pets can experience periodontal or gum disease. This can affect the pet in many ways. It can cause pain in the mouth. Pet owners may notice unusual gum color and bad breath.

But the effects of periodontal disease don’t stop there. As the disease advances, it can damage other organ systems, including the kidneys and the heart. Diseased gums and tooth decay can lead to tooth loss. Pain and missing teeth affect the appetite, and that may lead to malnutrition.

The vet will perform an X-ray and a deep cleaning to remove tartar and plaque buildup. He may recommend ways that owners can clean their pets’ teeth, either with brushing or with special chews.

It Can Be Expensive to Fix

Gum disease and bacterial buildup can cause a tooth abscess. Advanced disease can damage major organs, causing further disease. Complications mean more visits to the vet for more involved care and additional testing and in-office treatments add up in cost.

That adage that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure is definitely true when it comes to pet dental care. Getting a regular dental checkup for a beloved pet, coupled with good efforts at home to promote good dental health, can save a lot of pocketbook heartache later on.

It Can Cause Pain and Suffering

Pets can’t tell their owners when they have pain. Loose or broken teeth can be very painful. Periodontal disease can cause discomfort as well. A toothache is excruciating. With dental care and maintenance, pet owners can reduce the likelihood that their pets will suffer.

It can be devastating when pet owners find out that their pet has been in pain. Working with the vet to establish dental care can help avoid that suffering.

The Vet Can Help

Sometimes, the only sign that a pet is in pain is when its appetite decreases. If it hurts to chew, they will begin to avoid eating as much or could even stop altogether. Most pet owners don’t intentionally neglect their pet but might be afraid of trying to brush their pet’s teeth. The vet can show them ways to do it safely and which products could make the job easier.

Our team of dedicated professionals at Vet Express in Port of Spain, Claxton Bay, Trinidad, will assess your pet’s dental health and help you keep them healthy.

Learn more about pet dental care services, contact Vet Express in Port of Spain, Claxton Bay, Trinidad at (868) 221-2257 to make an appointment today!