Dental health is an important part of an animal’s overall well-being. Poor dental hygiene can lead to bad breath, behavioral issues, and even serious health problems in other parts of the body. Just like humans, animals need regular dental care to prevent these issues. This applies not only to dogs and cats but to any animal with teeth. Maintaining good dental health helps keep pets healthy, comfortable, and happy throughout their lives.
What is the role of the veterinarian?
During an annual veterinary visit, your veterinarian will examine your pet’s mouth to assess their overall dental health. This includes checking for plaque, tartar buildup, and signs of gingivitis. They will also count the teeth to see if any are missing, extra, or broken. Based on what they find, the veterinarian may recommend treatment or management strategies such as at-home dental care, professional cleaning, or tooth extractions to help restore and maintain your pet’s oral health.
What is my role at home?
It’s important to regularly check your pet’s mouth several times a week to monitor for any changes in their teeth and gums. Brushing their teeth daily, or at least three times a week, helps maintain good dental health. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush designed for pets along with pet-safe toothpaste. Additionally, dental chews and specialized diets can support oral hygiene and contribute to keeping your pet’s teeth and gums healthy. Tooth brushing is an important part of your pet’s dental care, and starting early can make the process much easier. Get your pet used to having their mouth touched from a young age to help them feel comfortable. Use positive reinforcement, such as treats or flavored pet-safe toothpaste, to make the experience enjoyable. Begin with short sessions, brushing just a few teeth at a time, and gradually increase as your pet becomes more tolerant. As an added measure, offer dental chews that have a VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council) stamp as a treat to help support oral health between brushings.
What are some dental health related risks to look out for?
Be aware that bones can break teeth, which can then be swallowed and cause problems in the mouth, stomach, or intestines. Human toothpaste is not good to use for dogs (as fluoride and xylitol is not safe for them). Instead, Watch for the VOHC seal on dental treats, chews, and food, to select products that have a proven benefit to dental health, and always use pet-friendly toothpaste!
Additional Resources:
Animal Dental Health Infographic PDF