Brush Up on Your Pet’s Dental Health
Every February, the veterinary community celebrates National Pet Dental Health Month by encouraging pet owners to take care of their pets’ teeth. Without proper dental hygiene routines, pets develop periodontal disease, which is the most common disorder affecting our pets nationwide. By age three, 80 percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats have some evidence of periodontal disease.
Periodontal disease is the infection and associated inflammation of the tissues surrounding the tooth. It begins with gingivitis, and if left untreated, the infection often spreads deeper into the tooth socket, destroying the bone. The tooth is very painful, becomes loose and may fall out.
At advanced stages, dental disease can significantly impact a pet’s quality of life. It can cause mouth pain, which makes eating difficult. Plus, bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and cause heart, liver and kidney complications. Pets are good at hiding pain, so it’s important for pet owners to take steps to prevent periodontal disease from striking in the first place.
Few dogs and cats show obvious signs of dental disease, so it is up to the pet’s family and veterinarian to uncover this hidden and often painful condition. The best way to prevent dental disease is to reduce the rate at which plaque and tartar build up on the teeth.
Fortunately, dental disease can be prevented through annual cleanings performed by our highly skilled doctors and veterinary technicians. Call us today at (480) 893-8423 to make an appointment for your pet’s dental cleaning!