With February being National Pet Dental Health Month, it’s a great time to think about your companion’s pearly whites. As an often-overlooked area of veterinary care, many pet owners neglect visits to their local pet dental clinics, which can lead to serious issues. The following information highlights the importance of dental care for your dogs and cats.

Signs of Dental Issues in Pets

There are many symptoms that can point to a dental problem in your dog or cat. For instance, bad breath is a common sign that can indicate tooth decay. Discolored and broken teeth, reduced appetite, swelling and bleeding, and excessive drooling can also point to a developing issue.

Additionally, pets can experience oral issues because of underlying conditions, and it will take a visit to a pet dental clinic to determine the underlying cause. Your pet’s teeth may be misaligned, or it could be cysts or tumors within gum tissue. Infected teeth are another issue, and this usually occurs as a result of untreated decay. Not only can infections be painful, but they can also seriously harm the health of your pet.

How You Can Brush Your Pet’s Teeth

Yearly exams at a pet dental clinic are a must to maintain good oral health. However, you should also take steps to clean your pet’s teeth at home to prevent issues from occurring. It’s recommended that you brush your pet’s teeth at least once a day. Look for finger brushes, which make pet dental care much easier.

Your veterinarian can also recommend products designed to clean pets’ teeth. For dogs, this includes things like dental bones, which scrub plaque and tartar away from the teeth while they’re being chewed. Your animal hospital can help you find the best products to suit your pet’s needs.

If you’re in search of a pet dental clinic in Clarksville, AR, Parker Animal Clinic is here to lend a hand. For more than 17 years, these kind and caring veterinarians have dedicated themselves to treating local pets like one of their own. They will assess your pet’s current oral health and offer recommendations as necessary. They also provide many other essential services, including flea treatments, spay and neuter services, in-house lab testing, and vaccinations. Visit their website to learn more about these and other offerings, or call (479) 754-5656 to schedule an appointment for your pet today. To search for medicine, dental products, and specialty dog food at a discounted price, visit their online pharmacy.