Although doggy breath is often considered normal for pets, this common misconception proves harmful, as bad breath is one of the first periodontal disease signs. Dental issues are among the most common problems that affect pets, with up to 90% of cats and dogs experiencing some form of dental disease by age 3. By learning how to keep your furry pal’s mouth clean, you help prevent them from developing periodontal disease and also protect their overall health. Follow our Pinedale Animal Hospital team’s seven effective dental care tips to ensure your pet maintains a gleaming smile and optimal oral health.

Pet dental care tip #1: Start with regular toothbrushing

Like people, cats and dogs benefit from regular dental care. Introduce a toothbrush and fluoride-free toothpaste specifically designed for pets into your furry pal’s routine. Begin gradually, allowing your furry pal to get used to the toothbrushing sensation, and build up to brushing a few times a week. This simple habit can prevent plaque buildup, reduce your pet’s gum disease risk, and keep their breath fresh.

Pet dental care tip #2: Choose the right dental treats and toys

Avoid giving your pet extremely hard bones, antlers, and hooves, and opt for dental treats and toys that promote oral health. These products often have textures or ingredients that help remove plaque and tartar as your pet chews or plays, and they do not damage their teeth. Not only are these items enjoyable for your four-legged friend, but they also contribute to preserving healthy teeth and gums.

Pet dental care tip #3: Look for the Veterinary Oral Health Council seal

The Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) is an organization that evaluates and recognizes dental products for their effectiveness in maintaining pets’ oral health. The VOHC provides a seal of acceptance to products that meet specific standards for reducing plaque and tartar accumulation in dogs and cats, so look for this seal when selecting dental products for your pet. 

Pet dental care tip #4: Combine dental care approaches

Consider combining various pet dental care approaches. For instance, a combination of toothbrushing, dental chews, and oral rinses may prove the most effective at preventing your pet from developing periodontal disease Or, if your four-legged friend fights tooth and nail when you try to brush their teeth, consider switching their diet to a prescription dental diet, using food and water additives to provide enzymatic oral cleaning benefits, and offering VOHC-approved dental chews and treats.

Pet dental care tip #5: Attend regular veterinary exams

Routine veterinary checkups are essential for your pet’s overall health, and dental health is no exception. Your Pinedale Animal Hospital veterinarian can identify early dental issue signs, provide professional cleanings when needed, and offer valuable advice on maintaining your pet’s oral hygiene at home. Through your pet’s regular veterinary visits, our team can detect dental problems before they escalate and become costly, both for your pet’s well-being and that of your wallet.

Pet dental care tip #6: Schedule professional dental cleanings

Just as people benefit from professional dental cleanings, pets do too. Professional veterinary dental cleanings involve plaque and tartar removal above and below the gumline, along with a thorough examination of the teeth, gums, tongue, hard and soft palates, and entire oral cavity. 

During a professional dental cleaning, our team puts your pet under anesthesia to ensure their safety and comfort, and to allow our team to get the most comprehensive picture of your furry pal’s oral health. Once your pet is safely anesthetized, our team takes full-mouth dental X-rays to identify hidden abscesses, resorptive disease, and a multitude of other dental issues. Dental X-rays are a crucial tool in assessing your pet’s oral health, as many dental problems occur below the gumline. If we identify any dental issues during your pet’s oral exam or cleaning, we can provide appropriate treatments such as extraction of diseased or damaged teeth, oronasal fistula repair, and other interventions to address specific problems.

Pet dental care tip #7: Monitor your pet’s eating habits

By observing your pet’s eating habits, you can gain insight into their dental health. Changes in chewing patterns, a reluctance to eat, or excessive drooling can indicate dental issues. If your pet exhibits any abnormal eating behaviors, consult our team promptly to address the concern.

Maintaining your pet’s dental health is key to their overall well-being. By incorporating these simple yet effective dental care tips into your routine, you help ensure that your furry friend enjoys a lifetime of good oral health. Schedule your pet’s next oral exam or professional dental cleaning with our Pinedale Animal Hospital team.