Maintaining good oral health also supports your furry family member’s overall health. Though at-home care provides a great foundation for the health of your pet’s teeth and gums, you need the support of our expert veterinary team to take care of their dental needs. If you’re interested in scheduling a dental checkup for your pet, please contact us at 604-464-6666.
How often should I brush my pet’s teeth?
You should aim to brush your pet’s teeth regularly, at least once a day. Initially, try to create a routine where brushing their teeth becomes a regular part of their day or night routine. You only need to focus on brushing their outer-facing teeth. Trying to reach your pet’s inner teeth can be difficult and painful. The most important thing is to take the time to remove the plaque and tartar buildup on the surface, which would cause gum disease. Pet toothpaste comes in tasty flavours like peanut butter, fish or chicken which will make the experience more enjoyable for your pet.
What are the signs of dental issues in pets?
Your pet could be suffering from a range of dental issues, like gum disease. Gum disease happens when the combination of bacteria, plaque and tartar move below your pet’s gum line, breaking down their teeth and gum structure. Signs of gum disease and other dental issues include:
- Bad breath
- Loose teeth
- Sensitivity around their mouth
- Difficulty chewing
- Excessive drooling
- Loss of appetite
What happens during a dental appointment?
First, our veterinary team will assess your pet’s dental health with an oral exam of your pet’s mouth. Next, our veterinary team will take digital X-rays of your pet’s gums and teeth to diagnose any issues not detected with the naked eye alone. With the help of anesthesia, we’ll also perform a thorough scaling to remove any buildup on the surface of their teeth and below the gum line, as well as polishing.
