Importance of Pet Dental Health

One of the most important aspects of a pet's health is dental health. Too many owners overlook this aspect, leading to periodontal disease in many pets. You know how important your teeth are to you. The same is true about your pet.

Dental Disease

Cavities are less common in pets than they are in people. However, pets can develop dental problems just like people. Some of these dental problems include:

Periodontal disease.
Broken teeth and roots.
Cysts in the mouth.
Infection and abscesses.
Misalignment of teeth and bite.
Bleeding from the mouth.
Pain in the mouth.

As in humans, plaque hardens into tartar below the gumline. It is hard to reach this plaque, so it sets and results in infection. The infection damages the tissues connecting the teeth to the jawbone. It may also damage the jawbone. Poor dental health in pets leads to periodontal disease in at least 80 percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats.

Importance of Dental Health

Animals that have dental problems have a difficult time eating. Some of them will start preferring food from the can to dry foods. They may lose weight and end up with other health problems. There are so many reasons why you need to take care of your pet's oral health. Here are a few more.

Preventing Bad Breath

Bad breath or halitosis is a sign of bacterial buildup in your pet’s mouth. Pets, in general, do not have good breath, but halitosis makes their breath worse. The buildup of bacteria could lead to further problems down the line. When you get a whiff of that bad halitosis breath, contact your vet. They will help you take care of your furry friend’s dental health.

Preventing Periodontal Disease

Periodontal or gum disease appears in two stages. The first stage is gingivitis, which is reversible with proper treatment and care. When gingivitis advances, it develops into periodontal disease. The damage from periodontal disease can be permanent and cost your pet their teeth.

It affects many pets by the time they are three years old. The chances of your furry friend getting periodontal disease increases as it gets older.

It Can Lead to More Health Problems

Research shows a link between periodontal disease and diseases in other organs. These organs include the kidneys, liver, and heart. The bacteria in the mouth travels through the bloodstream to these organs and causes damage.

You must, therefore, be proactive about all the aspects of your pet’s health. Remember, they cannot talk and tell us what they feel.

Preventing Oral Pain

Severe dental disease can be painful for your pet. That is why some animals will opt to eat softer foods and leave dry or hard foods. Keeping your furry friend’s teeth and gums healthy will prevent oral pain and keep it in health.

Preventing Loss of Teeth

When you do not take care of your pet’s teeth and gums, they stand the risk of losing their teeth. The process of teeth loss is painful. When your pet loses its teeth, it makes eating, chewing, and other activities difficult. Good dental health ensures the teeth stay in place so your pet can be its best.

For more on pet dental health, visit R Veterinary at our offices in Linn Creek, Columbia, and Waynesville, Missouri. You can call (573) 245-1027, (573) 346-5733, (573) 443-7274, (573) 774-3337, or (573) 875-7825 today to schedule an appointment.