Don’t wait until dental month to be concerned…Have you looked at your pets teeth lately???
Well lets start there!
Be proactive, take a peek every once in a while, and get to know the signs. Bad breath alone, could be a clear sign that something could be wrong. That it just might be time to see your veterinarian and schedule a dental for your pet if necessary.
Maybe the pet is younger, or it was said that your pet doesn’t yet need one. Well that’s a good time for YOU to take action…. Take the time to brush their teeth occasionally. Can’t brush them? Apply some pet toothpaste along the gum line with your finger, it all helps. Use dental chews, or toys, maybe even a water additive. Ask your veterinarian for recommendations.
Its best to try to maintain their teeth when they’re younger so its not difficult when they’re older. Bacteria doesn’t just cause gum disease. That’s only the beginning! Gum disease can lead to bleeding gums and pain, which could lead to loss of appetite. It can cause infections, bone loss, and loose teeth. And remember anesthesia and pulling teeth can get very costly $$$!!!
Before your pet goes under anesthesia always ask questions. Your pets age, bloodwork, and what kind of veterinary team you have on board for the procedure is all important. Your veterinarian should be more than happy to go over those and any questions you may have before dropping your pet off. AVMA goes into more detail about anesthesia, and what to expect. Although a veterinarian is present in the building, they may not always be involved in a routine dental. Ask if there will be a registered technician present for your pets dental procedure.
A full dental under anesthesia is definitely more thorough than a non anesthetic scaling of the teeth. But again, it all depends on your pets age, health etc. Always seek advice from a professional before scheduling.
Keeping your pets teeth clean is important to maintaining good health. Having too much bacteria in the mouth can easily get into the bloodstream and travel to major organs in the body. Moving bacteria to organs like the kidneys, liver, and heart could lead to more health problems.
Attached is something used to identify what shape the teeth are in, by showing the different stages.
Don’t give bacteria the chance to multiply and cause damage to your pets health, take precautions…. Take the time to take a peek.
Healthy pets are happy pets 🙂