Having a pet brings many responsibilities for pet owners. You must provide your furry friends with healthy food and potable water, along with a secure living environment and regular visits to your vet. Apart from these, dental care should also be a part of your pet’s regular health regime. Cleaning helps detect and prevent periodontal diseases, which affect your pet’s gum and muscles supporting their teeth.
Plaque is a sticky substance formed when food particles and saliva combine. It builds upon the teeth and is difficult for pet parents to notice. If left untreated for an extended period, plaque hardens into tartar, which can only be treated by a veterinarian.
Here are some tips that will keep your pet’s teeth strong & shiny!
1. Brushing Your Pet’s Teeth Regularly
It is an excellent way to prevent plaque. First and foremost, get toothpaste made specifically for pets. This is because toothpaste for humans contains harmful ingredients like fluoride. A pet’s toothpaste has an enzymatic action, and brushing teeth with it can give the best results. In addition, you can use either a pet toothbrush or a brush that fits over your fingertip. This way, you can take preventative steps to keep oral diseases in pets at bay. However, it is strongly advised to not buy off-the-shelf dental products without a veterinarian’s recommendation. Each pet has unique requirements and also not one type suits all so it is best to make an informed decision.
2. Pet Tooth Wipes
Pet dental wipes are an excellent choice for people who simply want to change their cleaning techniques. Using tooth wipes on your pet’s teeth can help remove plaque. They work the same way as toothbrushes, but they can’t get into corners and crannies like a brush. Dental wipes are easier to use than a toothbrush.
3. Check Your Pet’s breath
Smell your pet’s breath and if you notice a stinky breath coming out of his/her mouth, call your vet. Moreover, if your pet experiences a loss of appetite or vomiting, it’s probably the right time to book an online vet appointment & take your pet to the vet.
4. Don’t Skip Veterinary visits
Regular veterinarian visits are vital for ensuring your pet’s dental health. Your pet’s veterinarian has much experience in determining any oral health issues and can readily fix them if detected early. Your vet can also guide you in brushing techniques if required.
When Do You Need to Visit a Veterinarian?
If you find any of the below-mentioned signs of dental problems, then take your pet to the vet straightway:
- Bad breath
- Excessive drooling
- Reduced appetite
- Discolored, broken, missing, or crooked teeth
- Red, swollen, painful, or bleeding gums
- Bumps or growths within the mouth
There’s Nothing Like a Healthy Smile!
Knowing how to clean your pet’s teeth and gums can make their smile dazzle. Brushing should be done regularly, and if you see signs of periodontal disease or have questions about specific canine dental care activities, consult veterinary appointments online are available as an option. Are you looking for advanced veterinary dental services? Pet dentistry at DCC Animal Hospital is the best for your pet.
