The silent threat of dental issues
Dental disease is a prevalent health issue that frequently goes untreated when it comes to our pets.
Even though it might appear to be a small concern, if left ignored, dental issues can cause serious health issues for them. We’ll be having a look at what these dangers include and the best ways to prevent dental disease for your pet.
One of the most concerning aspects of oral disease is that it can creep up on you. It might be challenging for pet owners to identify the issue because the condition is frequently undetectable in its early stages. Severe pain, infection, and systemic health problems may develop as the condition worsens.
The dangers of untreated dental disease
The general health and wellbeing of your pet can be significantly impacted by untreated dental illness. The following are a few of the most detrimental effects:
Pain and discomfort
Your pet may find it difficult to chew, eat, or even open their mouth due to discomfort from dental infections. Weight reduction, altered behaviour, and decreased hunger are possible outcomes of this.
Systemic infections
The bloodstream can carry bacteria from infected teeth to other organs, including the liver, kidneys, and heart. Organ damage and perhaps fatal infections may result from this.
Chronic inflammation
Systemic inflammation throughout the body can be exacerbated by ongoing inflammation brought on by dental disease. Chronic illnesses like arthritis, kidney disease, and heart disease may become more likely as a result.
Immune system compromised
Prolonged inflammation can impair immunity, leaving your pet more vulnerable to illnesses and infections.
Decreased quality of life
Your pet's quality of life can be greatly impacted by dental pain and discomfort, which can result in them being unable to play and eat without pain, behavioural issues, lethargy, and a drop in energy levels.
Regular dental care must be a top priority if you want to safeguard your pet's health. You may assist avoiding these severe consequences and guarantee your pet's general health by taking care of dental problems as soon as they arise.
Prevent pet dental issues while you can
Consider these crucial ways to maintain the health of your pet's teeth and gums, before they increase in severity.
- Dental care at home: Establish a regular dental hygiene routine at home to help avoid the accumulation of plaque and tartar.
- Dental chews: To help remove plaque and freshen breath, select dental chews made especially for the size and breed of your pet.
- Dental diets: To lessen plaque and tartar accumulation, think about giving your pet a diet that has been prescribed by a nurse or vet.
- Toothbrushing: Use a toothbrush and toothpaste made especially for pets to brush their teeth on a regular basis. We recommend oral cleaning products that are VOHC approved for best care. Toothbrushing is one of the best methods for removing plaque and preventing tartar accumulation, although it could require some experience.
- Professional dental cleaning: To get rid of tartar and plaque accumulation and take care of any underlying dental problems, we may suggest getting your pet’s teeth cleaned professionally. To guarantee a complete and comfortable operation, these cleanings are always carried out under anaesthesia.
- Consistent vet visits: To keep an eye on your pet's oral health and identify possible problems early, schedule routine dental checks for your pet. Ideally, your pet should have a dental check every 6-12 months, or as part of their routine vet visit. We offer a comprehensive dental examination and any additional treatment where needed.
Don’t dismiss your pet’s dental health
The quality of life of your pet can be greatly impacted by dental disease, which is a severe health concern. You can contribute to your pet's oral health and general wellbeing by being aware of the dangers of untreated dental issues and putting in place a preventative dental care regimen.
Remember that the prevention of major health problems depends on early detection and action. As advised by your vet, schedule routine veterinary examinations, keep up a regular dental hygiene regimen at home, and think about getting your pet's teeth cleaned professionally. These actions will help your pet live a longer, healthier, and more contented life.
Contact Blackrock Vets today!
We can offer a dental check for your pet to ensure their teeth are healthy and recommend any course of treatment they may need.
