Why Does My Pet Need Regular Dental Care?
Imagine what your mouth would feel like if you never brushed your teeth or went to the dentist. For many dogs and cats, this is a painful reality. According to the American Veterinary Dental Society, more than 80% of dogs and 70% of cats have dental disease by the age of 3. Dental (or periodontal) disease is the most frequently diagnosed health problem in pets.
COMMON SIGNS OF DENTAL DISEASE
- Yellow or brown build up (tartar) on the teeth
- Red, swollen or bleeding gums
- Bad breath
- Excessive drooling
- Changes in eating or chewing habits
- Pawing at the face
- Loose teeth
- Depression
Dental evaluations are part of each wellness exam here at Redwood Veterinary Hospital because we firmly believe that dental care is a vital part of your pet's longevity. When left unchecked, tooth decay can result in irreversible periodontal disease that can be hard to combat.
Additionally, dental disease is commonly linked to other systemic illnesses and infections that affect the liver, lungs, kidneys and heart. Catching dental disease early on allows us to cut these other issues off before they have a chance to affect your pet's long term health.