The Importance of Healthy Teeth

THE IMPORTANCE OF HEALTHY TEETH

Say cheese!

Bad breath ruining cuddle time? Does your pet have red gums, swallow without chewing or rub his mouth with his paws? All these may be signs of dental and/or gum disease. Since February is National Pet Dental Health Month, there’s no better time to talk about oral care!

How important is oral health?

Close to 80% of cats and dogs show signs of dental or gum disease by the age of 3. The good news is that most animals don’t develop cavities the way we do. They are, however, afflicted by gingivitis and dental plaque accumulation, two conditions that can lead to serious health problems. Fortunately, preventive care can help your animal stay healthy and enjoy a better quality of life!

Combining various solutions

Tooth brushing is without doubt the best way to prevent oral disease. Easier said than done, right? Our advice is to go about it gradually. First, let your pet lick an animal toothpaste specially designed for them off your finger. Then, softly “brush” your pet’s teeth with your finger. In time, you’ll be able to introduce a toothbrush slowly into your routine.

Various other techniques can lead to positive results, including dental formula food that helps prevent plaque accumulation, gingivitis and bad breath. Certain treats also have similar properties, as do toys designed to add toothpaste.

Combining various solutions will allow your pets to maintain good oral health. However, professional scaling may occasionally be required, as it’s the only way to remove accumulated plaque.