Do you brush your pet’s teeth regularly? Dental health is an essential part of keeping your pet healthy and helping them live a long and happy life. This February, South Hyland Pet Hospital is celebrating National Pet Dental Health Month. We hope this information will help you improve your pet’s dental health and establish healthy habits all year long.
Why Dental Health is Important
Caring for your pet’s dental health is about more than just preventing bad breath. Poor dental health can lead to various medical problems and can have a significant impact on your pet’s long-term health.
Common consequences of dental disease include pain and difficulty eating. However, as dental disease progresses, the bacteria buildup can cause more serious problems. Severe infection can spread to the bone and cause significant damage to your pet’s jaw. Bacteria can also enter your pet’s bloodstream and spread to other parts of the body, including their heart, liver, and kidneys.
How You Can Help Care for Your Pet’s Dental Needs
Brushing your pet’s teeth is an essential part of caring for their dental health. Routine brushing helps remove plaque and prevents tartar buildup that is often a breeding ground for harmful bacteria. The more frequently you can brush your pet’s teeth, the better you can help fight dental disease. We understand that daily brushing can be difficult but recommend you brush your pet’s teeth at least a few times a week.
When brushing your pet’s teeth, make sure you are using pet-safe products. Human toothpaste can contain xylitol and other ingredients that can be harmful to your pet. Not only is pet toothpaste safer, but it also comes in more appealing flavors like chicken or beef.
The Importance of Professional Dental Cleanings
While at-home dental care is critical, your pet will also need professional dental cleanings. Our team at South Hyland performs these cleanings under general anesthesia. This allows our veterinarians to do a thorough oral exam and reach the many places a toothbrush cannot.
We typically recommend professional cleaning at least once a year. During your yearly wellness exam, our veterinarians can assess your pet’s oral health and provide recommendations based on your pet’s specific needs. However, if your pet is experiencing any signs of discomfort or a sudden change to the odor of their breath, you may need to schedule an appointment to have your pet evaluated. Dental emergencies can happen, and it’s essential to get your pet the care they need as soon as possible.
Give Us a Call!
At South Hyland Pet Hospital, we are proud to offer a wide variety of dental services. In addition to dental cleanings, our hospital also provides advanced dental care services, including dental extractions, digital dental radiographs, and dental care for exotic pets.
If you would like to set up an appointment or learn more about our services, please give us a call at 952-884-1868.
We hope this information will help you improve your pet’s dental health and create healthy habits to keep your pet healthy for years to come.
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