Keeping your pet healthy and happy isn’t difficult. With a healthy diet, daily exercise, and plenty of playtime and snuggles, your dog or cat will be your best friend for years to come. However, if there’s one task that many pet owners overlook, it’s pet dental care. Taking care of your four-legged friend’s teeth isn’t only important for getting rid of bad breath, but also for preventing some serious diseases. 

3 Ways to Give Your Pet Excellent Dental Care

1. Brush Your Pet’s Teeth

You brush your own teeth twice a day to eliminate harmful plaque and bacteria that can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and other issues. Your pet also needs regular tooth brushing. Ideally, you should brush your pet’s teeth daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste. Try to do this at at least once or twice a week. The more often you do it, the more likely your pet is to cooperate, and the less likely you are to have pet dental problems. 

2. Visit the Veterinarian for Dental Care

Regular professional pet dental care is needed for your pet to maintain a healthy mouth. Although your vet will check your pet’s teeth for visible issues such as inflamed gums or broken teeth during annual wellness exams, it’s also important to schedule an annual comprehensive dental exam. Your pet will be sedated for this exam, which includes x-rays, a thorough exam, and a professional cleaning. X-rays help identify problems happening below the gum line so they can be addressed promptly, reducing pain and the risk of serious complications. 

3. Offer Appropriate Chew Toys and Treats 

You might give your pets toys and treats without realizing that they can be harmful to their teeth or overall health. Tennis balls, for example, are beloved by dogs, but are abrasive and can cause decay and broken teeth. Pig’s ears and real bones are also dangerous to your dog’s teeth. Instead, offer non-abrasive toys that have the Veterinary Oral Health Council seal of approval, and treats that help control plaque and tartar in your pet’s mouth. 

Have your pet’s teeth been cleaned recently? If not, it’s time to schedule a visit with a veterinarian at Kapolei Pet Hospital in Kapolei, HI, today. They offer an extensive array of pet care and wellness services, including dental care, vaccinations, spaying and neutering, and stem cell therapy, all designed to help your best friend live a long, happy life. To schedule an appointment, call (808) 462-8040 or visit their website to learn more about their providers and services.