Due to all the new preventive medication, we can count on, our pets live longer, healthier lives, so much so that now a number of the very acute health issues pets may have are related to their dental health. Fixing our pet’s teeth regularly may make a massive difference in their health and well-being. By routinely, I mean every day but do not worry, as soon as you get a hang of it, it shouldn’t take you over a few minutes. Keep in mind, however, that even if you give them daily house cleaning, you need to always take your pet to the vet at least one time every year for a complete checkup, and when needed, professional teeth cleaning.
Cats and dogs don’t get cavities frequently, if at all, however, they do get gum disease, and tartar can build up excessively on the tooth. That’s the main reason to provide good dental hygiene. Plaque is formed when food particles and bacteria accumulate along the gumlines. If plaque is not removed 2 to 5 times, it turns into tartar, which gets stuck to the teeth and is not as simple to eliminate. Tartar irritates the gums, which is exactly what causes gingivitis.
Once tartar has grown, the cleaning needs to be done by your veterinarian who will remove the tartar and then polish the teeth. When the tartar builds up below the gums, it induces separation of the teeth from the teeth and strains openings, where even more germs can grow. At this point, they’ve developed periodontal disease. Besides being very painful, this can cause tooth reduction, abscesses, and infections. As the bacteria raises, it may even reach the bloodstream, which can result in an infection of the liver, the kidneys, or the heart valves. Only your veterinarian can block the advance or block the disease.
So, what type of dental care should you provide your pets?
Take your pet to the vet for routine checkups, which should include dental examinations. Have their teeth cleaned by the vet at least once, and then follow up with routine home dental care. As I’ve mentioned, your pet requires regular dental hygiene at home, but for a fantastic start, the teeth should be clean. If you have been taking good care of their teeth because they were babies, maybe you’re in good shape, but odds are you have neglected their teeth for a while.
Should they have already developed tartar, it would be important to get it removed by a vet. To execute a cleaning, your vet will anesthetize your pet, take x-rays, and proceed with the cleaning. Afterward, their teeth will be polished to remove any scratches caused by the cleaning to avoid the accumulation of germs. Then the vet will let you know the most effective dental care plan for the pet.
Let us begin with the meals. Kibble is definitely better for the pet’s dental health. Many foods have special properties to keep their teeth clean as possible. There are also many treats you can give them that will aid in removing plaque and prevent tartar build-up, as well as toys made specifically to assist in plaque removal.
Even when they eat the right kinds of food and perform the ideal toys, then you want to brush their teeth daily. This is the most important preventive measure you can take.
Ways to brush your dog’s teeth
First, you need to get him used to the process if you haven’t done it before. Start by gently massaging his gums and teeth for a couple of seconds and see how he responds. When the fusses, do not induce him and try again the next moment. In three or four tries, he must be more accustomed to your finger inside his mouth, and that means now you can advance to a brush. There are many types of brushes for puppies in your pet store, and if it’s a little dog, you may try using a piece of sterile gauze.
There is also special toothpaste for dogs that have yummy tastes like liver or poultry. Pay attention to the huge teeth in the trunk. Don’t worry a lot about the inside, but pay particular attention to the outside surface of the teeth. You can do two or three teeth per day if he doesn’t like the procedure a lot initially. Eventually, he will sit tight for the entire cleaning and you will be able to do it in a couple of minutes.
Ways to brush your cat’s teeth:
Again, you have to get your cat used to the feel of your finger inside her mouth. Start just massaging her gums and teeth for a few seconds daily. There are special brushes for cats, but using a sheet of gauze is very effective. In case the size of this cat will allow it, then you can utilize one of those plastic “finger brushes” made especially for cats or dogs. I personally find them big to the size of my cats’ mouths. You also don’t have to worry too much about the inside but do pay particular attention to the outside surface of the teeth. Do get the flavored toothpaste in a yummy carrot taste for them… or whatever else they prefer. Your vet can also suggest a special sterile solution for cats.
If you do not have anything else handy, you may use a mix of baking soda and water, but very little. Never use human toothpaste! Of course, when you receive your cat used to her teeth cleaning when she is a kitten, the job will be much simpler, however, you can find any cat used for this with patience and love. If you discover that it’s impossible, you will need to take her to a vet to have her teeth cleaned. Don’t put this off!! There are places in which they will do it for little money if you’ve got financial issues. Just don’t forget they are dependent on you for their health.
Comprehensive Dental Care
Routine dental care is a key component of a dog’s and cat’s oral and general health, but many pets aren’t able to obtain the veterinary dental care that they require so as to keep their teeth and gums healthy.
At our Tracy veterinary hospital, we offer complete dental care for your pet, from basics such as dental exams, teeth cleanings, and polishing, to dental x-rays. Looking for a dog dentist in Tracy? Find more here.
We are also enthusiastic about dental health education about home dental care for pet owners.
Our veterinary team at Paws & Claws Veterinary Hospital offers restorative and preventative dental care and surgery for dogs and cats in the Tracy area. Visit spay and neuter clinic to learn more information.
