Keep Your Pet’s Teeth Healthy with These Tips from Your Veterinarian in Phoenix, AZ

Dogs and cats rely entirely on their humans for their dental care. They can’t just brush their teeth themselves or tell you when they need to go to the dentist. Unfortunately, 85 percent of all pets suffer from periodontal disease by the time they turn three. This disease can lead to issues with the gums and even early tooth loss. As a pet owner, it’s your job to make sure their teeth get all the care and attention they need. Luckily, the veterinarians in Phoenix, AZ at Christown Animal Hospital are here to help! Following a few simple tips from your vet will help ensure your pet’s teeth are free of tartar, gum disease, gingivitis and other dental problems.

Start a dental care program early

Pets’ teeth become vulnerable when they lose their baby teeth and their adult teeth start to come in. That’s exactly when you need to start a thorough dental care routine. This should begin with regular tooth brushing at home. Use a toothbrush and paste specifically designed for their small mouths, and gradually build up to the brushing by working slowly. Focus on the outside of the teeth rather than the inside, as their tongue helps keep the inside of the teeth clean. Pay extra attention to the back molars, as they are especially prone to buildup. Make sure to finish every brushing session with a dental treat to reinforce good behavior.

Examine your pet’s mouth

Simply taking the time to investigate your pet’s mouth for any early signs of oral disease can make a big difference. Open their mouth to look for any signs of reddened gums, tartar buildup, abnormal swelling, excessive drooling, loose teeth or just foul-smelling breath. These are all signs that they could be in the early stages of an oral disease. Schedule an appointment with your vet if you notice any of these signs.

Enlist the help of a veterinarian in Phoenix, AZ

Proper veterinary dental care is the most effective way to keep your pets’ teeth clean and free of disease. Putting off a trip to the vet could cause their teeth to worsen, which can lead to extreme pain, infection and tooth loss. Your vet will perform a dental cleaning to remove any plaque and tartar from their teeth and inspect the health of the entire mouth. Typically, the pet will be put under general anesthesia to ensure they don’t experience any pain and to make it easier for the vet to fully inspect the teeth and remove tartar. The process is safe and effective. We recommend having a dental cleaning performed at least once per year.

Call Christown Animal Hospital to schedule a cleaning today

Making dental care a priority can increase your pet’s lifespan. It’s a small price to pay considering the years of fun, snuggles and companionship to come, not to mention helping your pet avoid pain. Reach out to the experts at Christown Animal Hospital today to schedule a dental cleaning for your dog or cat!

Categorised in: Teeth Cleaning, Veterinarian

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