We’re always told how important our dental health is for our overall well-being, but did you know that the same principle extends to your pet, too? Pet dental care should be as much a priority as grooming and bathing to ensure optimal health.

To keep your furry family member happy and healthy, the staff of veterinarians at Kapolei Pet Hospital, a leading pet clinic in Kapolei, HI, has outlined 3 main tips for maintaining optimal pet dental health:

• Regular Brushing: Brushing your pet’s teeth is one of the key ways to maintain good oral health. It can be a challenge to get them to sit still, but time and practice will net positive results. First, get your pet used to you massaging its teeth. Then, begin adding appropriate toothpastes and toothbrushes to be more thorough. Ideally, you should brush your pet’s teeth every day, but once a week is a good starting point. The preventative effects of brushing are well worth the effort.
• Dental Treats: Chew toys are for more than just entertainment! Gnawing on dental treats can help remove plaque from your pet’s teeth. Your veterinarian can help you identify which dental treats have the best ingredients to keep bad breath at bay, prevent the buildup of plaque, and maintain general oral health. Not only will they contribute to your pet’s dental care, but your pet will be kept busy and satisfied, too!
• Checkups At Home: In addition to regular visits to the pet clinic to get your pet’s teeth checked by a veterinarian, you can also conduct more informal, at-home pet dental examinations. Once a week or so, check your pet’s teeth and gums to make sure there aren’t any glaring signs of a problem. Stained teeth or gums that are bleeding or are more white than pink can be symptoms of bigger dental issues and should be looked at by a veterinarian.

For more information on pet dental care or to schedule an appointment at a reliable pet clinic, contact Kapolei Pet Hospital at (808) 462-8040 or visit their website.