Dental Care For Your Pet

Does your cat's breath smell like old fish? Is your dog drooling and struggling to chew his kibble? If so, it's time for a dental check-up. Proper pet dental treatment is vital, not only for fresh breath and the ability to chew their food but also to prevent more serious issues. At Oakdale Animal Hospital in Brandon, we can get your pet's pearly whites back in shape. Our expert team will gently take care of everything your pet needs, from x-rays to breath treatments. Keep reading for more information about the importance of pet dental care.

Why Is Dental Care Important?

Dogs have 42 teeth, and cats have 30. By the time most cats and dogs are 3 years old, they will have some level of periodontal disease. It begins with plaque buildup. Plaque is a combination of food and bacteria, and if it's not taken care of, it will turn into tartar. This can cause serious pain and also lead to kidney, liver, and heart muscle changes.

That is part of the reason proper dental care is important for your pet. Other issues your veterinarian will check for include:

    • broken teeth and roots

    • abscesses and infections

    • cysts and tumors

    • misaligned teeth

    • gum disease

    • cavities

    • don't allow them to chew on things not meant for chewing

Taking care of these issues will help prevent more serious problems later on.

Signs That Your Pet Needs Their Teeth Checked

All pets should have a dental exam once a year, but if you notice any of these issues, make an appointment with your veterinarian as soon as possible.

    • bad breath

    • broken or loose teeth

    • teeth covered in tartar

    • extra teeth or baby teeth that won't fall out

    • trouble chewing

    • drooling

    • bleeding from the mouth

    • swelling of the gums

What To Expect At The Dental Appointment

Pet dental treatments will include an oral exam by the vet. This is usually followed by x-rays. The vet may then fill any cavities, scale away plaque and tartar, and polish teeth much like humans. They may also provide a pet dental treatment for their breath. The veterinarian may choose to put your pet under anesthesia, depending on a variety of factors. They will discuss this with you beforehand.

What Can I Do At Home For My Pet's Dental Health?

    • regularly brush your pet's teeth

    • provide quality dental treats

    • avoid giving table food

    • provide dental toys

Contact Oakdale Animal Hospital in Brandon, MS

If you have any questions about pet dental treatments or anything else related to your pets' health, don't hesitate to contact us. Contact Oakdale Animal Hospital in Brandon today at (601) 829-9949 to learn more or to schedule an appointment.