Understanding the Importance of Pet Dental Care

How do you feel if you consistently avoid brushing your teeth? You'd probably end up with plaque and a nasty taste in your mouth, making it irritating and uncomfortable. Now, just imagine what could happen to your pet without proper dental care. Dental diseases are common in pets and can have serious consequences, making regular pet dental care essential for your furry companion.

What Is Dental Disease?

Dental disease affects your pet’s teeth, gums, and the surrounding structures. It starts with plaque buildup, a sticky layer that contains food particles and harmful bacteria. When plaque hardens, it turns into tartar. If tartar is left untreated, it can cause severe problems for your pet, leading to infection and pain.

Even if your pet's teeth appear white, tartar under the gumline can still cause serious issues. This inflammation damages the structures supporting the teeth, leading to infections and other dental problems.

Signs of Dental Disease in Pets

• Broken teeth
• Bad breath
• Bleeding/Swollen gums
• Inability to eat or chew
• Excessive drooling
• Teeth falling out

Why Is Pet Dental Care Necessary?

1) Preventing Tooth Loss

If the supporting structures of your pet's teeth become infected, tooth loss may occur. Regular dental care helps maintain healthy structures and prevents tooth loss.

2) Preventing Bad Breath

Bad breath is a common sign of poor oral health. Professional dental care can eliminate this problem, ensuring your pet’s breath is fresh.

3) Avoiding Oral Pain

Severe dental disease can be painful for pets. Regular dental care helps avoid discomfort and pain caused by infections and other oral issues.

4) Preventing Organ Damage

Oral bacteria can enter the bloodstream and spread to vital organs, causing serious issues like heart disease, kidney failure, and liver damage. Dental care reduces the risk of bacteraemia and prevents organ damage.

5) Preventing Worsening Dental Disease

While dental disease often begins by age 3 in pets, proper care can slow its progression and prevent it from becoming a severe health issue.

How Can I Maintain Good Oral Health for My Pet?

Maintaining good oral health for your pet includes regular professional dental care, along with daily care routines. Here are some helpful tips for maintaining your pet’s dental health at home:

1) Brush Your Pet’s Teeth

Brushing your pet’s teeth regularly is one of the best ways to maintain oral health. Use safe, vet-recommended pet toothpaste and brush your pet’s teeth at least a few times a week.

2) Provide Dental Treats

If your pet doesn’t like having their teeth brushed, try dental treats. These are specially designed to clean your pet’s teeth and keep them fresh.

3) Provide Dental Toys

Dental toys are great for cleaning your pet’s teeth and even freshening their breath. They are durable, safe, and perfect for pets that love to chew.

Bottom Line

Good pet dental care requires professional cleaning to ensure that both above and below the gumline are thoroughly cleaned. At the American Veterinary Clinic (AVC) in Abu Dhabi, we offer comprehensive dental care services, including general anesthesia to safely clean your pet’s mouth. Talk to our friendly veterinarians and schedule an appointment to ensure your pet’s teeth stay healthy and clean!