Identifying Dental Problems

Why is dental health so overlooked?
Why does my dog’s breath smell so bad?
How do I know if my pet needs a dental cleaning?
When is my pet too old for a dental cleaning?
What are the benefits to having my pets teeth cleaned?
What steps can I take to help prevent major dental problems?

Why is dental health so overlooked?
Dental disease is the most overlooked area of pet health care. This is because often times we don’t look in our pets’ mouths and don’t visually see the signs of tartar and gingivitis until it has become very advanced.

Why does my dog’s breath smell so bad?
Most often, bad breath or “halitosis” is caused by dental or periodontal disease and bacteria accumulating in the mouth. Internal diseases such as kidney disease can also cause bad breath. A trip to your veterinarian is recommended in order to pinpoint the cause of your pet’s bad breath and to ensure he/she is in good health.

How do I know if my pet needs a dental cleaning?
There are several simple ways to know if your pet can benefit from a dental cleaning.

• Does your pet have halitosis or “bad breath”?
• Are you starting to see yellow to brown discoloration at the gumline?
• Do the gums appear red or puffy? 
• Is there any pain or bleeding when you touch the gums?
• Does your pet have any broken or loss teeth?
• Is your pet over 2 years of age and never had a dental cleaning?
• Has it been over a year since your pet’s last dental cleaning?
• Have you noticed your pet is reluctant to eat dry foods or chew on hard treats?
• Has he stopped catching the ball or Frisbee when thrown to him?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, your pet may be due for a dental cleaning and you should call to schedule an evaluation immediately.

If you’re still not sure then call us to schedule a complimentary 10 minute oral evaluation to determine if your pet can benefit from a dental cleaning, discuss the dental cleaning process and receive an estimate for your pet’s cleaning needs.

When is my pet too old for a dental cleaning?
Never! Older pets when healthy handle general anesthesia very well. Having a healthy mouth in an older pet is just as important as in a young pet.

What are the benefits to having my pets teeth cleaned?
Many dogs that have dental disease also have discomfort. You may not notice obvious signs of pain but many people after having their pets teeth cleaned notice their pet is more active and playful and has an improved appetite. Pets with clean teeth and fresh breath are also more pleasant to be around. In addition to the obvious improvement in oral health, pets who receive regular dental care may live up to five years longer than their counterparts with poor oral care.

What steps can I take to help prevent major dental problems?
The American Veterinary Dental Society recommends that pet owners follow three basic steps.

• Step 1: Don’t wait for an annual checkup if you suspect a problem. Have your veterinarian perform a dental exam immediately.
• Step 2: Begin a dental care program at home. Home dental care can include brushing teeth, oral rinses, dental diets or treats, sealants and water additives to name a few. Discuss home care with your veterinarian, be honest about what will work for you and your pet, devise a home care plan and stick with it.
• Step 3: Schedule regular veterinary checkups. These are essential in monitoring the progress of your pet’s dental health routine and scheduling cleanings to prevent irreversible damage.

<< Previous | Next >>