Dental disease is among the most common problems we see with our canine and feline clients. And while regular exams are the only way to find and treat issues, there are some things you can do at home between visits to help keep your pet’s chompers clean and healthy.
One of the first things that comes to mind is brushing the teeth, and this is beneficial. However, unless your pet has been trained to have it done, you need to be patient when introducing the process. If you’re not currently brushing your pet’s teeth, we recommend a dental exam first to ensure there are no loose teeth, bleeding gums or other issues that need to be treated first. Once we accomplish this, we can show you the best way to brush, how often to do it, and what products should work best for your furry friend. Besides brushing, there are specially-designed chews and kibble (dry food) that help remove plaque buildup from the teeth—we’d be happy to suggest our favorites. Parents should also make a habit of examining their pet’s mouth at least once a week to check for any signs like bleeding gums, lumps or swelling. Healthy gums should be shiny and pink, not dark red or white. If you find something of concern, schedule a visit with us for an exam.
By working together, we can provide the dental care needed to help keep your furry friend healthy and happy.