Like humans, dogs and cats can be affected by oral disease or may have accidents needing medical attention. Also, like humans, oral problems can affect their general health. Although routine veterinary checkups include mouth tests and cleaning, there are situations where oral problems are unforeseeable.
Breed-Specific Issues
Some dogs and cats are more susceptible to oral issues because of their breed. These can be due to their bone structures or their genetic makeup.
Some breeds with small mouths, like chihuahuas, usually have issues with overcrowding. Some dogs and cats may even experience persistent deciduous teeth (PDT), where baby teeth do not fall out. Adult teeth then force their way out, resulting in both malocclusions and overcrowding.
Big-breed canines are prone to a condition called gingival hyperplasia. It means the dog experiences excessive growth and thickening of the gums. It can be caused by genetics or can be a reaction to inflammation because of bacteria in the gums.
Periodontal Disease
When the problems mentioned above are not addressed, there is a risk of periodontal diseases. Suppose there is difficulty in maintaining oral hygiene due to pain or hard-to-reach areas; plaque buildup is unavoidable. Tartar buildup can go under the gum line. Bacteria in plaque can trigger gingivitis, stomatitis, and other troublesome conditions.
Oral Treatments and Surgery
Dogs and cats that are consistently brought to the veterinarian for their annual are most likely to maintain excellent oral health. Aside from the thorough cleaning and dental examinations, the vet can provide suggestions relating to breed-specific concerns. Tooth extractions or orthodontic intervention can be proactive solutions to impending problems.
However, the vet dentist might suggest emergency or even full-mouth extractions in case of serious damage and disease. This might sound frightening, but pets may live much better lives without teeth than be in pain and at risk of complications. To know more about dental treatments, why not click this link?
Practical Tips for Pet Owners
You are responsible for the total wellness of your family pets. Here are some tips to consider to ensure that your pets get the best possible chance for exceptional oral health. These require your commitment and dedication for the very best results.
Establish Good Habits
If you can, brush their teeth twice daily, but not less than thrice a week. Some pets might be fussy, but they can adjust to this routine and bond with you at the same time. Be gentle and encouraging during toothbrushing sessions.
Visit the Veterinarian
Annual or bi-annual checkups include dental work. Throughout this time, the vet can see the state of your pet’s dental health and any early indications of problems. The majority of the time, pets will be sedated to make it possible for the veterinarian to remove plaque thoroughly. Check out vet hospitals and check their website to see what happens during an annual pet exam.
Consider Pet Insurance or Wellness Plans
You might check with veterinarians or insurance providers about what they can do for your pets. In-house wellness plans include oral checks and focus on preventive care. Pet insurance can cover the expensive treatment costs in emergency scenarios that may require vet surgery. In either case, payments will be easier on your pockets, and you will always have a sense of preparedness.
