How Often Does My Dog Need Dental Cleaning?
Most people brush their teeth every day and have them cleaned professionally twice per year. But what about your dog? They can’t brush their own teeth or schedule their own dental cleaning. Our veterinarians at Valley Animal Hospital in Clifton, NJ, have some advice for you and your dog concerning pet dental care.
The Dangers of Periodontal Disease
Your dog needs healthy teeth, gums, and jaws just as much as you do. If your animal doesn’t get regular dental care, plaque can build up and bacteria can find its way under the gums and multiply. The toxins they release can cause gum disease, loosen teeth, and even damage the jaw.
Poor oral health is no fun for any animal. It can lead to excessive drooling, tooth decay, inflamed gums, bad breath, and loss of appetite. If the disease is not controlled the damage can travel to the internal organs such as the heart, kidneys, or liver. A pet can die because of untreated periodontal disease.
There’s no cure for periodontal disease. However, it’s possible to prevent it. If the disease is already present, action can be taken to prevent it from getting worse.
Prevention and Management of Pet Periodontal Disease
It’s a matter of oral hygiene. You should brush your dog’s teeth every day with a soft toothbrush. There are toothbrushes and flavored toothpaste made just for dogs. It is important to not use “people toothpaste” for dogs since some brands have ingredients that are harmful to animals. Brushing is the best way to start keeping your pet’s mouth clean and healthy.
Annual Cleaning
Your animal’s teeth need to be cleaned professionally at least once per year. In addition to cleaning, your veterinarian will inspect your dog’s mouth and look for any signs of dental diseases.
Pet Dental Care in Clifton, NJ
Our veterinarians at Valley Animal Hospital can keep your pet’s mouth in tip-top shape. Even if your pet is still a puppy, it’s not too soon to start taking action with this important aspect of his or her health. Call us today at (973) 509-5225 or schedule an appointment online.