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Your pet’s dental health is a key factor in their overall quality of life, influencing more than just their ability to enjoy their favorite foods and crunchy treats. At True Care Veterinary Hospital, we understand the profound impact of oral health on a pet’s vitality. We aim to ensure your pet receives the dental care needed for a joyful and healthy life.
How Dental Health Affects Heart Health
Dental health is a crucial component of your pet’s overall wellness. Without proper dental care, pets are at risk of disease and even a shortened lifespan. However, this risk is preventable through regular dental maintenance.
It’s important to understand how dental health affects the heart. Dental problems begin with bacteria buildup in the mouth, which can lead to plaque and tartar formation. If left untreated, this can progress into periodontal disease, a serious gum infection that can damage the gums and even destroy the jawbone. These bacteria from periodontal disease can then enter the bloodstream, potentially leading to endocarditis, an infection of the heart’s inner lining. Early detection and intervention are crucial to preventing these bacteria from causing heart disease in your pet.
Your Role in Your Pet’s Dental Health
Keeping up with your pet’s dental care is a team effort, and your role is central to their health and happiness. Regular brushing and timely veterinary checks can protect them from the onset of dental diseases.
The answer to “how often should I brush my pet’s teeth?” is simple: ideally, every day. Just as with humans, daily brushing is the best way to keep your pet’s teeth clean and healthy. However, even brushing several times a week can make a significant difference.
Reading the American Animal Hospital Association’s article on teeth brushing is a great place to start. And WebMD’s pet health website offers a helpful video demonstration, How To Brush Your Dog’s Teeth, as well as a comprehensive article, Ten Steps to Cat Dental Health.
Our friendly, knowledgeable staff can help guide you in:
- Brushing techniques
- Choosing the right products
- Managing a consistent dental care routine
How to Keep My Pet’s Teeth Clean: Beyond Brushing
Apart from brushing, other methods to keep your pet’s teeth clean include dental chews, special diets, and toys designed to reduce plaque and tartar buildup. At Coal Creek Animal Hospital, we can recommend the best products tailored to your pet’s specific needs.
Spot the Signs: Early Detection of Pet Dental Diseases
Dental issues in pets can creep up quietly and worsen if unnoticed. Stay alert for these signs:
- Foul breath
- Excessive drooling
- Loose teeth
- Inflamed gums
- Tumors or cysts in the mouth
If you notice any of these symptoms, see your vet promptly before more serious problems emerge.
Comprehensive Dental Evaluations
In addition to recognizing the early signs of dental issues, comprehensive dental evaluations are essential to thoroughly assess and maintain your pet’s oral health. At True Care Veterinary Hospital, a dental check-up is performed at each wellness visit and includes the following:
- Detailed inspections of the teeth and gums
- Assessment of bite and jaw health
- Evaluation of oral hygiene and cleanliness
- Customized dental treatment plans
Advanced Dental Solutions
When dental emergencies or complex conditions arise, our advanced dental procedures and surgeries can relieve discomfort and address the problem. Our commitment to cutting-edge dental care includes:
- Pre-Anesthesia Testing for Safety: We prioritize your pet’s safety with thorough pre-anesthesia testing to ensure they’re fit for the procedure.
- High-Resolution Digital Dental X-rays: Our advanced imaging technology allows for highly accurate diagnoses.
- Pain Management During and Post-Surgery: We believe in compassionate care, including effective pain management strategies during and after dental surgery.
- High-Speed Dental Instruments: Our state-of-the-art dental instruments allow efficient and thorough cleaning, even in the most challenging cases.
Our hospital is equipped with the latest in veterinary dental technology, and our team of skilled professionals is adept at handling everything from routine cleanings to complex dental surgeries.
Smiles that Last, Hearts that Beat Strong
The evidence clearly shows that dental health and heart health are intertwined. True Care Veterinary Hospital doesn’t just care for your pet’s teeth—we safeguard their hearts through meticulous dental care. Please contact us with any questions or concerns about your pet’s oral health or to schedule a dental examination.