How Is My Pet's Dental Health?
Your pet might not need to take a bath every single day, but many pet owners don’t realize that their pets need regular dental care to keep their teeth, gums, and bodies healthy – just like we do. In fact, most dogs and cats already have some form of periodontal disease (gum disease) by the time they reach age three. Periodontal disease can wreak havoc on a pet’s general health, even leading to premature death.
Signs and Symptoms of Dental Problems in Pets
We recommend scheduling a dental exam sooner rather than later if you notice any of the following signs or symptoms in your pet:
- Excessively bad breath
- Retained baby teeth (shark teeth) or extra teeth
- Missing teeth
- Broken or loose teeth
- Tooth discoloration (yellow or brown stains on the teeth)
- Excessive drooling
- Dropping food frequently or chewing abnormally
- Dropping toys frequently
- Bleeding from the mouth
- Swelling in or around the mouth
- Signs of oral pain (whimpering or yelping when eating or picking up objects)
How to Care for Your Pet's Teeth
The best way to protect your pet from periodontal disease and the health risks associated with it is to take good care of their teeth and gums.
Pet Dental Care at Home
At home, we recommend brushing your pet’s teeth daily (or as frequently as possible) using toothpaste formulated for pets and a toothbrush designed for your dog or cat. Additionally, you can provide your pet with dental-friendly treats and chew toys in addition to using water additives and dental-friendly kibble.
Professional Pet Dental Care
Professional pet dental care is similar to dental care for humans. During a routine pet dentistry appointment, our veterinarian thoroughly examines your pet’s teeth and gums for signs of tooth decay or other issues. We then clean your pet’s teeth by scaling and polishing the surfaces of the teeth to remove any accumulated tartar and plaque. This deep clean also extends slightly below the gum line to help combat periodontal disease.
Mobile Pet Dentistry in Carlsbad
With Signature Veterinary Services, we bring everything your pet needs to keep their smile happy and healthy right to your doorstep. We provide comprehensive pet dentistry services and treatments. To learn more about pet dentistry and the importance of dental care for dogs and cats, we welcome you to contact us today.
