Have you ever wondered about the cause of your pet’s terrible breath? The scary truth is that bad breath is just one of the noticeable symptoms of dental disease. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), most pets will have some form of periodontal disease such as dental plaque and tartar by the time they are 3 years old. But age is not the only factor that determines when a pet will need some dental help. Breed, diet, genetics and more also play a role in dental heath. 

February is National Pet Dental Health Month, but oral hygiene is something pet owners should be considering all year long. Oral health impacts more than just a pet’s teeth; left untreated, dental disease can lead to tooth loss, abscesses in the mouth, jaw weakness or even increased risk for heart disease and damage to the liver and kidneys. Undiagnosed pain can also lead to changes in behavior such as lack of eating and energy, sensitivity and more. 

There are several ways you can help your best friend keep their pearly whites healthy. The best way is with regular brushing. Your veterinarian can provide information on how to acclimate your pet to having their teeth brushed and make it part of your daily routine. There are even flavored toothpastes and brushing chew toys to make it a fun and tasty activity. (Please note that you should never use human toothpaste or toothbrushes for your pet though!) For pets who may be too stressed by having their mouth handled, some alternatives can include oral water additives and dental treats. Chew toys can also be a fun way to help maintain dental health, but it’s important to discuss with your vet which dental cleaning options are most appropriate for them. 

Depending on a pet’s background but also as they get older, they may often need additional dental support. Because most dental disease lives above the gum line where it’s not visible, your veterinarian may recommend a dental cleaning, where they can check each tooth, remove tartar and plaque and polish them. Your pet may need some extractions or additional treatment to help promote healing. These dental cleanings are performed under anesthesia for the comfort and safety of your pet, as well as the dental team.

While your vet will be checking your pet’s teeth during their annual examination, if you notice other symptoms such as bad breath, a broken tooth, discharge or suspect they are in pain, it might be time to contact your veterinarian. Regular dental care will leave both you and your pet smiling!