Practicing good oral hygiene in pets is just as important as our own. Unfortunately, gum disease is one of the most common conditions seen by veterinarians. Pets are known to hide pain when experiencing dental problems, to combat this you should regularly check their mouths and take them to oral examinations. We recommend that you have a veterinarian evaluate your pet’s dental health at least once per year. Your pet’s teeth need to be brushed regularly to keep them sparkly white and prevent dental problems.

What are signs of dental problems in pets?

Common signs may include:

• Bad breath
• Yellow or brown buildup (tartar)
• Bloody saliva
• Red or bleeding gums
• Excessive drooling
• Chewing on one side
• Lumps or bumps in their mouth
• Blood on their chew toys

If left untreated, dental problems can lead to decay and other serious issues. Bacteria in the mouth can get into the bloodstream and cause infections in the kidney, liver, lungs and heart. A physical examination and some lab work can determine how serious the symptoms are. We encourage you to seek veterinary help if your pet shows any of the signs above. Schedule an appointment at 613-531-3334.

How can I care for my pet’s oral health?

1. Brush their teeth regularly. Our veterinarians recommend cleaning your pet’s teeth regularly to prevent plaque from building up. You should only use a toothbrush and toothpaste made specifically for pets. Human toothbrushes or paste may harm your pet.
2. Examine your pet’s mouth. By checking their mouths you may be able to spot dental problems and notify us before they start to cause serious problems.
3. Annual oral examinations. These allow your pets to have a full oral exam and teeth cleaning.
4. Provide good quality foods. Our team will recommend a diet that has foods that help your pet’s situation. There are some foods that contain additives that clean your furry friend’s teeth while they chew.