Just as you need to care for your teeth and oral health, you also have to consider the dental hygiene of your pets. Dental care may be even more important for animals, as they don't brush their teeth on a regular basis the way people do. Below are a few benefits of taking your dog or cat to a pet dentist regularly.

Benefits of Maintaining Your Pet's Dental Health

1. Prevent Dental Issues

Plaque accumulates on teeth when bacteria in the mouth interact with minerals in saliva; it then hardens and forms tartar. For pets, tartar is often brown in color, but it can penetrate deep below the gum line and may not be readily apparent to the naked eye.

If left unchecked, tartar buildup can cause inflammation that can evolve into serious dental issues and diseases, like broken or loose teeth, bleeding from the mouth, excessive drooling, or, in extreme cases, an inability to eat or drink.

2. Improve Breath

A lick from a happy dog or an affectionate headbutt from a friendly cat can be cute but possibly unpleasant if your furry friend has bad breath. This condition is known as halitosis and is common in pets, as it can result from tartar buildup. A pet dentist will teach you the proper way to brush your pet's teeth, and they will be able to catch and treat early warning signs of plaque, tartar, and gum problems.

3. Protect the Overall Health of Your Pet

Dental issues that are not resolved can impact more than just your pet's mouth. The harmful bacteria can enter the animal's bloodstream and lead to bone loss, organ damage, and life-threatening infections. The kidneys are especially vulnerable to the effects of untreated oral health issues. For the overall health and wellness of your four-legged friend, be sure to take them to a pet dentist for a checkup at least once a year.

When you need quality dental care for your animal, visit Pet Health Clinic. Serving the Botetourt County, VA, area, their veterinarians offer a wide range of health services designed to support your pet's wellness. From routine exams and pet vaccinations to surgeries and lab work, they are here to help you look after the animal you love. Call (540) 992-4550 or visit their website to schedule an appointment.