An often overlooked part of pet care is brushing their teeth. Cats and dogs get into all manner of things, which is why pet dental care is so important. Not brushing their teeth can have serious consequences. To avoid them and raise awareness, celebrate National Pet Dental Health Month this February. By taking preventive steps and educating yourself, you can keep your pet’s mouth healthy and ensure they’re happy.

Your Guide to Pet Dental Care

Why Do I Need to Brush?

Your pet’s mouth can be just as sensitive as yours and prone to many of the same oral health issues. When unchecked, bacteria can cause bad breath and lead to more significant oral health problems. Brushing their teeth removes problematic bacteria and plaque, and it’s something you should be doing daily if possible. Your veterinarian can provide a proper demonstration and preferred pet dental care products to use.

What Oral Health Problems Can Occur?

Aside from bad breath, when you avoid pet dental care, you set them up for gum disease. This condition occurs when plaque builds up below the gum line and begins attacking the sensitive tooth root. It then leads to serious infections that cause bleeding, destroy gum tissue, and create constant pain. When unchecked, your pet will begin to lose their teeth, making it difficult to eat or play. It’s complicated to treat and expensive; a pet surgeon will have to remove plaque from the tooth root, so the gums reattach and eliminate any decay-causing bacteria. In the worst cases, they may have to remove the affected teeth.

Poor pet dental care can also lead to organ damage. As the toxins created by gum disease-causing bacteria enter the bloodstream, they can have negative effects on the heart, kidneys, and liver. The outcomes can potentially be fatal, so schedule regular pet wellness exams and speak with your veterinarian about proper oral care.

To ensure your pet’s smile is healthy, turn to Thompson Animal Medical Center. Located in La Crosse, WI, they offer comprehensive pet dental care services, and their friendly staff will work closely with you to ensure your pet’s well-being. They provide 24/7 emergency services to ensure their patients are always covered, and you can learn more about their pet hospital by visiting their website. Call (608) 788-8820 to schedule an exam, and like their Facebook page for news and updates.