Keeping those tails wagging and whiskers twitching, one smile at a time!
When you think of your pet’s health, you probably think of vaccines, checkups, or a balanced diet—but how often do you think about their teeth? Dental care is one of the most overlooked aspects of pet health, yet it plays a huge role in your dog or cat’s overall well-being.
Why Is Dental Care So Important?
Dental disease is one of the most common health issues we see in pets. In fact, by the age of 3, over 80% of dogs and 70% of cats have some form of periodontal disease. Left untreated, it can cause:
- Chronic pain
- Tooth loss
- Infections that can spread to the heart, liver, and kidneys
- Bad breath (we’re talking really bad!)
A healthy mouth isn’t just about fresh breath—it’s about protecting your pet from avoidable pain and serious health issues.
How Often Should My Pet Get a Dental Cleaning?
Just like people, pets need regular dental care. Here’s what we recommend: Daily to Weekly:
- Brushing your pet’s teeth at home with pet-safe toothpaste.
- Using dental chews or water additives approved by your vet.
Annually:
A professional dental cleaning under anesthesia.
This allows us to clean below the gumline, take x-rays, and extract any diseased teeth if needed. It’s more than a “cleaning”—it’s a full oral health assessment.
More frequently:
Some pets (especially small breeds, brachycephalic breeds like Bulldogs or Persians, and seniors) may need professional cleanings more often
Common Cat and Dog Dental Myths: Busted!
❌ “My pet is eating just fine, so their teeth must be okay.”
✔️ Animals are great at hiding pain—just because they’re eating doesn’t mean their mouth isn’t hurting.
❌ “Dental cleanings are just cosmetic.”
✔️ Nope! They are essential for preventing infection and tooth loss.
❌ “Anesthesia isn’t safe for my pet.”
✔️ Modern anesthesia is very safe when monitored properly. The benefits of dental cleanings far outweigh the risks for most pets.
Pet Dental Q&A
Q: What are signs my pet might need a dental cleaning?
A: Look out for bad breath, drooling, pawing at the mouth, red or bleeding gums, loose teeth, or a change in eating habits.
Q: What happens during a dental cleaning?
A: Your pet is placed under anesthesia, allowing us to perform a thorough exam, take dental x-rays, clean above and below the gumline, and address any dental disease.
Q: Is brushing really necessary if I get cleanings?
A: Yes! Brushing at home helps prevent plaque buildup and keeps their mouth healthier between professional cleanings.
Q: How do I get started with brushing my pet’s teeth?
A: Start slow. Use pet-safe toothpaste and a finger brush, and reward them with praise or treats. Consistency is key—make it a positive experience.
Let’s Keep Those Smiles Healthy!
If it’s been a while since your pet’s last dental exam, we’re here to help. Whether it’s time for a cleaning, or you just have questions about starting a dental care routine at home, our team is happy to guide you every step of the way.
Call us today at (708) 478-7788 to schedule a dental consultation or cleaning!
Healthy mouth, happy pet.