Your pet’s beautiful smile may not always be the first thing you think about when you think about your furry family members. But taking care of a pet includes ensuring their dental health. If you ignore dental disease in pets, it can lead to numerous other health issues that are much worse than yellowed teeth or bad breath. Understanding the risks and taking preventative action can help your pet live longer and be healthy and more comfortable.

Dental Disease in Pets – What is it?

Periodontal disease, or dental disease is a common problem for pets.  It can be especially problematic as they age. Just like you humans, plaque can start to build up on their teeth. If it’s not addressed, plaque can harden into tartar. In time, bacteria can grow below the gumline, which leads to inflammation and can eventually cause damage to their teeth, gums, and eventually the underlying bones.

Signs of Dental Disease in Pets

Here are a few warning signs that your pet may have dental disease.

·         Bad breath

·         Drooling excessively

·         Yellow or brown buildup on their teeth

·         Gums that are red, swollen, or bleeding

·         Trouble eating or chewing

·         Loose or missing teeth

·         Pawing at their face or mouth

If your pet exhibits any of these symptoms, they need to see the veterinarian as soon as possible.

What Happens if Dental Disease in Pets Isn’t Treated?

Failing to take care of your pet’s dental disease can lead to bigger problems. It can cause your pet quite a lot of pain. If they suffer from loose teeth, swollen gums, or infection, it can make eating and playing uncomfortable for them. Some pets tend to hide their pain, so you may not notice that there is an issue until it becomes more severe. Just like humans, untreated dental issues weaken the teeth’s supporting structure and can lead to tooth loss. This can make chewing food properly difficult for your pet.

In some cases, bacteria from gum disease can enter the bloodstream. When this happens, it can cause serious conditions like liver problems, heart disease, and kidney disease. An oral infection can spread to other parts of the body, which puts your pet at risk for abscesses or other complications that would need more extensive treatment. If your pet becomes uncomfortable or they are in pain from dental disease, they may become irritable or withdrawn. This can alter their personality and affect their quality of life.

Preventing Dental Disease in Pets

The best way to protect your pet’s dental health is preventive care. Here are some ways to help prevent dental disease in pets.

Regular Dental Checkups. Schedule dental exams with your vet once or twice per year.

Professional Cleanings. Professional dental cleaning (under anesthesia) lets the vet remove tartar and plaque, which addresses problems that may be below the gumline.

Daily Dental Care. Use pet-safe toothpaste to brush your pet’s teeth regularly. Pawer Dog Wipes can also be used to clean plaque from teeth and for daily dental care. You may also use dental chews, toys, or water additives to help support your pet’s oral hygiene.

Monitor Your Pet’s Diet and Treats. Choose high-quality foods and treats for your pets to help promote dental health. Some products are designed specifically for reducing plaque buildup.

About the Author: Hazel

Hazel is the head engineer at Pawer Lab where he works to develop and test our pup-focused products. He enjoys the simple things in life and a good walk in the park. When Hazel isn’t working, he enjoys fetching tennis balls, riding in the car, and stalking delivery professionals.