Far too many pet owners fail to understand the importance of pet dental care. This is done to the detriment of their pet's health and quality of life. At Fairlea Animal Hospital in Lewisburg, WV, we want to sound the alarm about the importance of pet dental examinations and treatment for pets in order to avoid unnecessary pain and other potential problems for animals everywhere.
Pet Dental Cleanings
Dental cleanings for your pet aren’t only about making your pet’s smile more attractive. It’s about checking your pet’s mouth for signs of potential problems, removing tartar buildup, getting rid of bacteria in the mouth, and freshening their breath.
Pet owners should consider yearly dental cleanings as part of the standard pet dental care process. This is in addition to regularly brushing your pet’s teeth at home and using dental treats designed to reduce tartar buildup. The great news is that brushing your pet’s teeth can be an important opportunity to bond with your pet.
Why Is Dental Care for Pets So Important?
The most important reason to care for your pet’s dental needs over time is to prevent dental disease. At the very least, routine, yearly pet dental care from your vet can help to identify signs of this dreadful disease early and begin treatment promptly.
Pet dental disease can cause a wide range of issues, including:
- Tooth pain
- Tooth loss
- Chronic inflammation
- Organ damage
- Bad breath
The real problem is that many of the problems associated with dental disease in pets cause cascading results. For instance, tooth loss may affect your pet’s ability to eat nutritious food. Tooth pain may affect its willingness to do so.
Signs Your Pet May Need Dental Care from Our Vet
Your pet can’t tell you that he has a toothache or that he lost a tooth. It is up to you to become an advocate for your pet. In addition to yearly pet dental cleanings, consider consulting our vet if you notice these potential signs of dental disease:
- Broken teeth
- Loose teeth
- Bad breath
- Unwilling or unable to eat or drink
- Excessive drooling
- Bleeding mouth
You are your pet’s first line of defense against pet dental disease. Fairlea Animal Hospital is an important next step to consider for Lewisburg, WV area pet owners. Call us today to schedule your first dental visit with our veterinarian.
