The Importance of Veterinary Dental Care

Do you know what would happen if you went years without going to the dentist? Many people who do not go for regular appointments suffer from bad breath, gum disease, tooth decay, cavities, and other nasty consequences of bad oral health.

If you wouldn’t put yourself or your children through this, then why do it to your pet? It is important that your pet receives proper veterinary dental care. Without it, your furry friend could suffer from many of the same consequences that you would if you didn’t visit the dentist. Many pet owners dismiss this form of health care; only approximately one-third of pet owners actually provide veterinary dental care for their pet.

However, veterinary dental care is extremely important, not only because of the dental side effects. The dental side effects are only the beginning of the damage that can be caused by the lack of dental treatment. Dental disease can spread, leading to other, more serious problems, such as kidney, heart, and lung disease. Would you put your pet through one of these serious diseases? Of course not! That is why it is vital that you pet receives the proper veterinary dental care.

At the Veterinary
The two main ways that your pet’s veterinary dental care is administered at the vet’s office are through oral examinations and dental cleanings. Oral examinations should be a part of your pet’s regular vet appointment, and they should begin at a young age. Typically, a veterinarian will look at oral development, and check for any swelling, or missing and additional teeth. Though oral examinations can be performed while your pet is wide awake, any extensive examinations require anesthesia.

Dental cleanings are another component of your pet’s veterinary dental care that is performed at your vet’s office. Anesthesia is required during a dental cleaning where the vet will remove plaque, polish the teeth, use fluoride and sealants, and take x-rays. Experts recommend that your pet have a regular dental cleaning every two years.

At Home
Your pet’s veterinary dental care shouldn’t stop at the vet’s office—it is important that you, as the pet owner, take an active role in your pet’s dental care. One of the main things that you can do at home to ensure that your pet’s teeth are healthy is to brush their teeth every day. There are special brushes and toothpaste for animals, and there are specific procedures for young and old dogs. Ask your veterinarian what the best procedures and products for your pet would be.

Next article: Pet Dental Care - An Essential Aspect of Caring for Your Pet

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