Like humans, Our pets (pets) require regular and consistent dental treatment not only to guard against illness but also to ensure that their teeth are in good shape and function throughout the time possible.

The most frequent pet health problem is why 70 percent of cats and 80 percent of dogs have some form of dental disease at the age of three years old.

It’s crucial to maintain your pet’s dental health at home. However, it’s also important to schedule regular visits with a veterinarian in order to stay at the top of their dental health.

Why it’s vital to look after your pet’s dental health

Dental disease can cause severe pain for your pet. Should it get worse, it can lead to gum and tooth infection, swelling, inflammation, and bone as well as tooth loss.

Both dogs and cats are affected by dental issues that we would recognize in humans – like dental plaque (a hard, sticky accumulation of bacteria that may damage the tooth) and dental tartar, also known as calculus (a layer of minerals that has hardened and become bonded to tooth enamel and, is left in place for a long time, and is only removed with professionals for cleaning) and gingivitis (inflammation and swelling of gums).

Just like humans, a preventative approach to dental care is essential for companion animals to keep these dental issues from becoming worse and causing problems throughout the body of your pet.

What is it that I can do at home?

There are many actions you can perform at home to ensure that your pet’s gums and teeth are in good shape.

The most efficient way to do this may be to be a little surprising! – is to clean their teeth. It may sound not very safe, but animals are used to being cleaned.

To wash their teeth, apply the toothpaste of your pet onto a microfibre towel (cleaned and replaced as required and only used to do this) And gently brush it across each tooth. Do not use human toothpaste since it could cause stomach issues for your dog.

The younger your pet gets when you start to train your pet to get their teeth cleaned, the easier it will be. It’s best to begin gradually with the introduction of tooth brushing esp, especially when your pet is older. Your vet can offer advice regarding your pet’s specific needs.

There are special dental diets that are suitable for dogs and cats, and chewing gum and other toys that help control tartar and plaque. Your vet can guide you to the most efficient products. Another product your doctor may recommend is one called a Chlorhexidine gel or mouthwash. These products are intended to decrease an increase in bacteria within the mouth, which could cause dental problems.

Regular vet treatment

Alongside these guidelines for home use, it’s imperative to book a routine health check-up with your veterinary doctor at least every year. This includes an examination of your teeth.

This will allow your veterinarian the opportunity to evaluate the teeth of your pet and gum health and offer suggestions on what you should do to address them at home.

The vet might recommend that your pet undergo general anesthesia in order to permit an entire dental exam as well as cleaning your teeth, x-rays in the event of need, and treatment of any particular issues (such as teeth that are damaged).

If you have questions about dental treatment for your pet, speak to your veterinarian or consult the RSPCA Knowledgebase. If you take the right focus and attention, you and your veterinarian ensure that your pet’s dental and gums are in good shape.