Pets are a valued member of any family. They deserve to be well-taken are of so they can live long, happy lives. Pet dental care is a very important aspect of pet health care. Periodic oral checkups will help to avoid any major medical issues that could jeopardize your pet's overall health.
At Alexander at the Park Veterinary Hospital in Durham, NC, our veterinary team can help make sure that all of your pet’s dental needs are taken care of.
Why Do Pets Need Dental Care?
Like humans, pets are susceptible to major oral issues like bleeding gums, missing teeth, and abscesses. These issues can lead to serious periodontal problems if left untreated. Periodontal disease has an adverse effect on most pets.
A lack of oral hygiene is the most significant cause of periodontal disease forming in the inside of an animal’s mouth. Often, the symptoms include inflammation of the gums and deterioration of the bones connecting the teeth to the jawbone. Keeping your pet's mouth clean is the right course in preventing periodontal disease from forming. Our veterinarian can administer professional teeth cleanings and dental exams, which include X-rays to confirm the condition of your pet's teeth and gums.
Through regular pet dental care, our veterinarian can detect any periodontal issues in their beginning stages. This will make treatment a much easier process, as early detection will save your furry friend from pain and suffering.
How Do I Know If My Pet Needs Dental Care?
There are clear indications that your pet needs immediate dental care. Some of the more obvious signs include a red stripe forming along their gum line, unpleasant breath odors, reluctance to chew food, or a distinct change in chewing habits. If you notice any of these warning signs, then immediately contact our veterinarian at Alexander at the Park Veterinary Hospital to get help with the next step in treating your pet's dental issues.
How Common Is Periodontal Disease in Pets?
Just like humans, pets can contract periodontal disease in their mouth along the gum line. Usually, the age of three years old is when pets develop some degree of plaque and tartar on their teeth and gums. If left untreated, periodontal disease could begin forming and possibly enter your pet's bloodstream. If this occurs, then the disease could damage the liver, kidneys, and heart. However, an annual dental examination with our veterinarian is the best course in preventing periodontal disease from damaging the structure of your pet's mouth.
Visit Our Veterinarian
If you have any concerns about the condition of your pet's teeth and gums, it is important to bring it in right away. At Alexander at the Park Veterinary Hospital in Durham, NC, our experienced staff can diagnose and treat any dental problems your pet has. To learn more or to schedule an appointment, call us today.