Dental disease is a huge problem in the animal community. In fact, it is the number one disease seen by veterinarians. Poor dental health will cause pain and can lead to infections not just in the mouth but in the rest of the body. Infections in your pet’s mouth can spread to other areas of the body through their blood. This is why we emphasize preventative care with frequent dental assessments, cleanings, and product recommendations.
What is dental disease?
Dental disease is an umbrella term for problems in the mouth. Your pet develops dental disease when their oral healthcare is neglected. The food that your pet eats mixes with the saliva and bacteria in their mouth to form plaque. When the plaque isn’t removed daily it hardens to tartar. At this stage, the bacteria multiplies and causes more problems for your pet.
How can I tell if my pet has dental disease?
The first step to spotting dental disease in your pet is to always be vigilant. It’s better to spot the differences earlier before the problem escalates into something more serious. Here are some signs you should look for:
- Yellow/brown buildup on their teeth
- Swollen or red gums
- Bad breath
- Excessive drooling
- Pawing at the face
- Chewing on one side
Once you spot these signs we encourage you to call us at 403-249-3411. Our team will use digital X-rays to assess how far the disease has progressed. Dental disease can hide below the gum line and do irreparable damage if left untreated.
How can dental disease be treated?
If your pet has dental disease, your best option is to work with an experienced veterinarian. Undoing the damage from the disease will take veterinary and at-home care. Our team will recommend a professional dental cleaning that requires anesthesia. During the cleaning, we remove tartar and polish their teeth. If necessary, we will remove infected or broken teeth. Your pet needs annual cleanings to remove hardened bacteria, especially below the gums.
At home, our team will recommend that you brush your loyal companion’s teeth regularly. Using a pet-friendly toothbrush and toothpaste can make the experience safe and tasty for your pet. Your veterinarian can also recommend special foods that clean your pet’s teeth as they chew. Our in-house pharmacy has many of these products for purchase.
