Because your pet is part of the family, cats and dogs need to maintain optimal oral health just as much as humans do. To ensure the health of your pet, here are a few dental tips to help maintain your pet’s dental hygiene.
Be Aware of the Signs Pointing to Poor Health.
Bad breath, discolored teeth, or even missing teeth can be a sign that your pet may have periodontal disease. Make sure you examine your pet’s mouth routinely.
Brush your Pet’s Teeth.
While you may not be able to maintain as a rigorous dental health routine for your pet as your own, brushing your pet’s teeth can greatly improve their ability to protect against pathogens and prevent more serious issues down the road. Providing your pet with rewards after treating their teeth can get a pet into the habit of waiting to brush their teeth.
Give your Pet Dental Toys and Treats.
Many foods, treats, bones, and other items your pets chew on contain properties that promote good dental hygiene. Make sure to look out for brands that help to manage dental health by either eliminating germs, brushing teeth while eating, or helping to maintain gum health.
Take your Pet for Professional Examinations Often.
A routine checkup ensures your pet is healthy and strong. This includes allowing the dentist to go through their mouth to examine their oral health and suggest advice for improving their at-home care. Your veterinarian can help you decide which habits can best benefit your pet’s routine dental care.
Bring your Pet into a Pet Dentist
While there are no official pet dentists (yet), bringing your pet into an office to receive sedation can allow your veterinarian to eliminate tartar buildup in the same fashion a dentist for humans would. Allowing your pet to receive extended care while sedated will improve their chances of combatting issues such as gingivitis and tooth decay.
Discover More Dental Health Tips!
Your puppy or kitten deserves a lifetime of healthy teeth. Look for these tips and stay up to date on the latest dental news by following our blog. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Gil Bloom or Ira Wendroff to learn more about maintaining proper dental health for you and your pets!