Our goal at Rising Sun Veterinary Clinic is to help pet owners as well as farm livestock owners to have healthy animals that live long lives. Our goals as veterinarians are to educate our clients on good preventative medicine so that our patients can thrive for their owners throughout life. For nearly 60 years Rising Sun Veterinary Clinic has been dedicated to its patients and clients with a constantly changing veterinary field and we will continue to provide these services in a clinic that is ready to grow and provide current medical techniques with a small hometown practice etiquette for our clients.
Show Your Pet Some Love With Proper Dental Care
February is here, and love is in the air! But while you’re showering your loved ones with chocolate, flowers and cards, don’t forget the furry members of your family. This month is National Pet Dental Health Month and a perfect time to prioritize your pet’s dental health. Just like us, pets can develop dental problems that impact their overall health and happiness.
Proper dental care can improve your pet’s quality of life and even extend their lifespan. Here, we’ll share essential tips to ensure your pet’s teeth stay healthy and strong.
Why Pet Dental Care Matters
Pet dental care is about much more than freshening up bad breath. Dental issues in pets often start small but can escalate quickly if left untreated. Plaque and tartar build-up can lead to gum disease, tooth loss, and even infections that affect your pet’s heart, kidneys, and liver.
Common dental issues in pets include:
- Plaque and tartar build-up: These lead to gum irritation and infection.
- Gingivitis: Inflammation of the gums caused by bacterial infections.
- Periodontal disease: Advanced gum disease that can result in pain, tooth loss, and bone damage.
- Tooth abscesses: Painful infections at the tooth root that often require extraction.
When untreated, dental issues can escalate, causing chronic pain, systemic infections, difficulty eating, malnutrition, and sadly, a shorter lifespan. By prioritizing regular at-home care and professional cleanings, you can protect your pet from these complications.
Signs Your Pet May Need Dental Care
Pets are experts at hiding pain, which is why dental issues often go unnoticed. Regularly checking your pet’s mouth for signs of trouble can make a big difference in catching dental problems early. Here are some key symptoms pet owners should watch for that may indicate your pet needs dental care:
- Bad breath: A persistent foul odor isn’t just unpleasant—it’s often a sign of gum disease or bacterial infections.
- Red or swollen gums: Healthy gums should be pink, not red or inflamed.
- Difficulty eating or chewing: Pets with dental pain may drop food or favor one side of their mouth.
- Excessive drooling: While some pets drool naturally, sudden or excessive drooling could point to oral issues.
- Bleeding from the mouth: Blood on chew toys or in saliva is a red flag for gum disease.
If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment.
The Importance of Professional Dental Cleanings
Your pet’s dental health is an integral part of their overall well-being, and while at-home dental care is essential, it’s not enough on its own. Just like humans, pets need professional dental care to keep their teeth and gums healthy. Veterinarians play a key role in identifying and treating dental problems that pet owners may not notice at home. A professional dental exam goes far beyond what a toothbrush or chew toy can achieve.
During a professional dental cleaning, our veterinary team tailors the care to your pet’s specific needs, which typically include:
- Assessing overall oral health: Checking for signs of gum disease, broken teeth, or infections.
- Performing dental X-rays: These help identify hidden issues beneath the gumline.
- Teeth cleaning: Removing plaque and tartar from teeth, including below the gumline where bacteria often thrive.
- Providing treatment if needed: This could include tooth extractions, antibiotics, or other necessary procedures.
These cleanings are typically done under anesthesia to ensure your pet remains comfortable during the procedure.
Show Love with Dental Care This February, and Continue All Year Long!
February is National Pet Dental Health Month, the perfect time to show your pet how much you care by prioritizing their dental health.
Make dental care part of your Valentine’s gift to your furry companion by:
- Brushing their teeth regularly.
- Offering VOHC-approved dental treats.
- Scheduling a professional dental cleaning with our team to remove plaque and tartar and prevent gum disease.
Your pet’s dental care doesn’t just improve their oral health—it enhances their overall quality of life. From fresher breath to a reduced risk of systemic diseases, the benefits of proper dental hygiene are worth every effort. This February, celebrate Pet Dental Health Month by giving your pet the gift of a healthier, happier smile.
Image credit: Ralu Gal | Unsplash
