Humans are told that visits to the dentist are important for their overall health, but the same also goes for pets. Pet dental is one of the pet services you should visit Northwood Veterinary Hospital for. Proper dental hygiene for your pet can help him or she avoid developing periodontal disease and other dental issues. This is caused by a buildup of bacteria. The bacteria forms plaque. Calcified plaque is tartar and it can also eventually lead to gingivitis. Another common problem to prevent in pets is broken teeth. Chewing on treats or toys can break your cat or dog's teeth, which can be painful.
What Is a Dental Cleaning?
During a pet dental cleaning at your veterinary clinic, your veterinarian will put your dog or cat under general anesthesia. The vet then uses dental tools to remove tartar and plaque from the teeth. When your pet is seen for a cleaning, the vet also uses X-rays to check on the bones below the gum line to see if any problems aren’t visible on the tooth surface. The vet also checks to make sure there aren’t any teeth infected or broken.
How You Can Help with Dental Hygiene
Besides regular dental cleanings, there are also things you can do to help with dental hygiene. One of the best things you can do is brush your pet’s teeth. Daily brushing prevents the buildup of plaque and tartar. It’s not always easy to do it daily but you can start to incorporate it into your routine. Use pet-specific toothpaste and either a finger or regular toothbrush. You can also buy foam or liquid oral products to kill some of the bacteria found in your pet’s mouth. These aren’t as effective as brushing but they are still better than nothing. Some treats and toys remove tartar and plaque buildup but not all of them work the same way. It’s always best to consult with your vet.
Make an Appointment with Our Veterinarian in Northwood, NH
Call Northwood Veterinary Hospital today at (603) 942-8368 for more information or to schedule an appointment with our veterinarian.
