Dental health is an important component of your pet’s health and general well-being. Maintaining your pet’s oral hygiene with an at-home dental care routine and regular professional exams and cleanings can protect your pet from the serious consequences of periodontal disease. Our team at Creature Comforts Veterinary Service explains the dangers of periodontal disease and provides tips to help keep your pet’s mouth and teeth bright and healthy. 

Periodontal disease is common in pets 

Periodontal disease, which is a progressive oral condition caused by plaque and tartar accumulation above and below the gum line, is one of the most common health issues in pets. Dental disease affects 85% of all pets age 3 or older, and while certain pet breeds are more predisposed to dental health issues, poor dental hygiene is the biggest factor behind dental disease.  

Plaque buildup causes periodontal disease in pets

Periodontal disease results when plaque builds up and forms a slimy layer on your pet’s teeth that in a few days hardens into cement-like tartar. The plaque begins to build up only hours after eating. The tartar traps bacteria in and around the gum line, and the bacteria invade your pet’s tooth roots, causing painful periodontal disease, infection, abscesses, tooth loosening, and tooth loss. If the bacteria enter your pet’s bloodstream, they can damage vital organs such as the heart, which can be life-threatening. 

Early signs of pet periodontal disease often go unnoticed

Unfortunately, periodontal disease early signs are subtle and often go unnoticed until the disease has advanced. Bad breath is usually the first clear sign, but look out for less obvious  signs, which include:

  • Brown or yellow tartar buildup on the teeth
  • Red, swollen gums
  • Broken or loose teeth
  • Excessive drooling
  • Decreased appetite
  • Swallowing food whole without chewing
  • Blood in the mouth or on bowls or toys

If you notice any of these signs in your pet, schedule a dental evaluation so we can assess their dental health. 

Pets need regular veterinary dental care 

Your pet’s teeth and gums should be examined by your veterinarian annually to maintain good oral health and look for early dental disease signs. A professional cleaning may be recommended, as well as dental X-rays, which can show the 60% of dental problems that exist under the gum line and cannot be directly visualized. A complete professional pet teeth cleaning will include: 

  • Scaling tartar from the tooth surface, above and below the gum line
  • Polishing each tooth to remove microscopic etchings created by the scaling, where bacteria can adhere
  • Probing the gum line for pockets that indicate periodontal disease
  • Irrigating below the gum line to flush away bacteria and debris
  • Rinsing with an antimicrobial solution

An at-home dental care routine also is essential for pets

In addition to regular dental examinations and cleanings, you must maintain a daily at-home routine to prevent dental disease in your pet. An at-home dental care regimen should include:

  • Toothbrushing — By brushing your pet’s teeth daily, you can reduce the amount of plaque and bacteria and help keep dental disease at bay. Use these tips to brush your pet’s teeth at home:
    • Use pet-friendly toothpaste and toothbrush.
    • Introduce toothbrushing slowly to help your pet feel comfortable.
    • Ensure the experience is calm and positive.
    • Use a gentle brushing motion on all surfaces.
    • Praise and reward your pet for a job well done.
  • Look for dental disease signs — Monitor your pet’s dental health at home daily—ideally when brushing their teeth—by checking their teeth, gums, tongue, and oral tissues for gingivitis, tartar, and other potential issues.
  • Provide appropriate chews and toys — Too-hard chew toys can damage your pet’s teeth, so avoid bones, antlers, and hooves. Sticks and tennis balls can also be harmful.
  • Use approved dental health products — Dental health products included on the Veterinary Oral Health Council’s accepted product list are proven to reduce plaque and tartar accumulation and to effectively battle dental disease.

Prevent painful periodontal disease and help maintain your pet’s overall health with a thorough professional dental exam and cleaning. Contact our team Creature Comforts Veterinary Service team to schedule an appointment and together, we can ensure your pet’s mouth and teeth stay healthy and pain-free.