Just like humans, pets teeth also need to be cared for. As tedious as it is! In honor of Pet Dental Month of February 2021, we have compiled a list of tips for you to practice with your pet and their dental health. PLUS, the Fire Hydrant Team had the opportunity to interview the experts at Priceless Pet Rescue’s Vet Clinic!
In this post we will cover…
- The interview with the experts, Priceless Pet Rescue Vet Clinic
- How often should you brush your pet’s teeth (dog and cat)?
- What are the best dental chews / toys your dog should have to help with their teeth?
- How to be aware of the symptoms of gum disease and/or infection in your pets mouth?
Q&A with Priceless Pet Rescue Vet Clinic
Want to know more about Priceless Pet Rescue Vet Clinic, click here.
Q: How often should a pet’s teeth get cleaned?
A: Pets should get their teeth cleaned on average once every year and a half depending on the overall health of the pets teeth.
Related: A 3-Step Guide to Brushing Your Pet’s Teeth
Q: Why is it important for me to get my pets teeth cleaned?
A: Dental hygiene is very important for pets. Broken, decaying, or damaged teeth can cause the pet to be in severe pain, and dental disease can be common with these issues.
Q: Are there any toys, food, and/or treats that can help keep my dogs/cats teeth in healthy condition?
A: We recommend dental chews formulated specifically for dental health.
Q: What do vets wish people knew more about when it comes to their pets dental health?
A: Dental health can cause serious concerns. A bacterial infection can spread throughout the body if pet dental health is left untreated. Also, trouble eating is a big issue for pets with severe dental issues.
The Top 4 Best Dental Chews for Your Dog
- Greenies Dental Dog Treats & Dog Chew Review
- Pedigree Dentastix Dental Dog Treats
- Paragon Whimzees Toothbrush Star Dental Treat For Dogs
- Water Additive: Oxyfresh
Deciding which dental chew may be best for your dog? Here is a pros & cons list of the ones listed above.
The 3 Best Toys that Can Help Clean Your Pets Teeth
- Dog Treat Toy Ball, Dog Tooth Cleaning Toy, Interactive Dog Toys
- CEESC Dog Toothbrush Chew Toys Dog Teeth Cleaning Stick,Puppy Brushing Dental Oral Care for Small Medium Large Dogs
- ZHEBU Dog Chew Toys Puppy Teething Toys for Small Medium Dog Dental Care Toothbrush for Small Breeds Indestructible Dog Teeth Cleaning Toys
How to Recognize Signs of Infection or Gum Disease
Tooth Infection
Tooth infection is usually caused by your dog having rotten teeth, a broken tooth, or cavities within the teeth. This can cause your dog to have a serious dental and health problem since it can spread and cause discomfort to your dogs entire body.
Signs of Infection
- Bad breath
- Bleeding gums
- Drooling
- Inflammation and swelling around the tooth
- Loose teeth
- Nasal drainage
- Not eating
- Pain
- Swollen face
- White drainage or pus
Dental Disease
“Gum disease is a bacterial infection in the gums, ligaments, and bone surrounding the teeth and is the most common dental concern for dogs. This disease is also the most common reason dogs lose teeth. Gum disease isn’t the same as a tooth infection. While gum disease affects the teeth’s supporting structures, the gums, ligaments, and bone, a tooth infection only affects the tooth itself.” – Canine Journal
Symptoms
- Bad breath
- Brown or yellow teeth
- Loose teeth
- Pain when eating
- Plaque and tartar buildup
- Red and bleeding gums
- Swollen gums
- Tooth loss
- Trouble eating
If your pet is experiencing either of these, please contact your vet.
In what ways do you practice good dental hygiene with your pets?