Dental care in pets-maintaining healthy teeth

Certainly! Proper dental care is essential for maintaining your pet’s overall health and preventing
dental disease. Here’s an overview of dental care in pets

Importance of Dental Care in Pets
– Prevents periodontal disease, which affects the gums and supporting tissues
– Reduces bad breath (halitosis)
– Prevents tooth loss
– Lowers risk of systemic health issues, such as heart, liver, and kidney disease, caused by
bacteria entering the bloodstream
Common Dental Problems in Pets
– Gingivitis (gum inflammation)
– Periodontal disease (infection affecting the structures supporting the teeth)
– Plaque and tartar buildup
– Tooth fractures or broken teeth or mobile teeth
– Tooth root abscesses
– Oral tumors (less common)

Signs of Dental Disease
– Bad breath
– Red or swollen gums
– Plaque or tartar visible on teeth
– Drooling or pawing at the mouth
– Difficulty eating or dropping food
– Tooth discoloration or loose teeth
– Oral pain or bleeding
—
Dental Care Recommendations
1. Regular Brushing:
– Use pet-specific toothbrushes and toothpaste (never use human toothpaste).
– Brush daily or at least several times a week.
2. Professional Dental Exams and Cleanings:
– At least once a year, or more frequently in pets prone to dental disease.
– Performed under anesthesia to thoroughly clean below the gum line and evaluate teeth.

-COHAT stands for Comprehensive Oral Health Assessment and Treatment. It is a complete
dental procedure performed by veterinarians to evaluate, diagnose, and treat dental disease in pets,
primarily dogs and cats
3. Diet and Chews:
– Dental diets formulated to reduce plaque buildup (e.g., Hill’s T/D).
– Dental chews and toys designed to help clean teeth and massage gums.
4. Oral Rinses or Water Additives:
– Pet-safe products can help reduce plaque and freshen breath.
– Healthy mouth and Vetradent are commonly available in Groat vet centre
(Please watch for VOHC Accepted Products logo while buying dental care products for
your pets)

5. Monitoring and Home Care:
– Regularly check your pet’s mouth for signs of dental problems.
– Discuss any concerns with your veterinarian.

Prevention & Education
– Early dental care can prevent pain, infection, and tooth loss.
– Consistent home care combined with regular veterinary exams offers the best protection.
– Recognize early signs of dental disease and seek veterinary care promptly.