Annual checkups can diagnose problems with pet’s teeth and gums, heading off oral issues

Does Fido’s breath leave you wishing for a puppy breath mint?

Bad breath may be a sign of dental problems. Oral health is an often overlooked aspect of pet care. Domestication has removed the ancestral teeth-cleaning techniques of tearing at prey, vigorous chewing and gnawing on bones. This provided abrasive cleaning as well as enzymatic activity to reduce tarter build up.

Today’s typical pet diet is high in carbohydrates, served in a bowl and quickly consumed – far removed from the ancestral diet. Dental health has suffered as a result.

The American Veterinary Medical Foundation recommends pet’s teeth be examined at least annually by a trained veterinarian to check for oral maladies. Oral exams can determine periodontal disease, loose or cracked teeth, mouth pain, etc, and may include X-rays as well as scaling to remove tarter.

If dental health is neglected, harmful bacteria can flourish, leading to inflammation and gum disease (and bad breath)! Studies have also shown that pets with gum disease have higher rates of heart, kidney and liver disease. Fortunately, increased awareness of the importance of oral hygiene in companion animals has led to a surge in dental products. With so many options, how do you know where to begin?

Brushing your pet’s teeth with canine toothpaste is a great way to maintain dental hygiene. Daily brushing is recommended and most dogs will adapt to this process if you start with short sessions and give your pets lots of praise. There are also enzymatic dental gels and sprays that can be sprayed on the teeth without brushing.

If your pet resists your brushing efforts, dental chews can be a great choice, and the options are plentiful. Chewing provides a mechanical abrasive cleaning and most add essential oils, kelp or other plaque inhibitors to increase effective cleaning. Dental chews satisfy the dog’s innate desire to chew so it is mentally rewarding as well. There are many flavors to entice even the pickiest of pups, so if your pet doesn’t approve of your first choice, another flavor or brand might become a favorite. Shop carefully, as some brands marketed as dental treats may have little dental benefits and even contain the chemicals BHA and BTA.

Bones are the original dental chew. They provide hours of chewing satisfaction and can be great for dental health, but an aggressive chewer can actually crack teeth on bones. Small bone pieces can be swallowed, causing choking and other serious medical problems. Cooked bones can splinter which may lead to medical issues. Antlers and horns are slightly softer and may be a better choice for some pets.

Pets should be supervised while enjoying bones or other dental treats.

Water additives are increasing in popularity because of their simplicity. The supplement is poured into your pet’s drinking water and usually works by reducing tarter build up. They often contain a breath freshener to benefit the pet parent as well.

Anesthesia-free dental care is a popular option but may not be the right choice for every pet. There is a substantial cost savings compared with traditional teeth cleaning using anesthesia, and many pet parents would prefer to avoid anesthesia. Any cleaning should include an oral exam performed by a licensed veterinarian to access the appropriateness of the service. Pets with periodontal disease, cracked or damaged teeth, etc., should have treatment using anesthesia.

Pet oral care is an important part of pet health. With the wide range of products designed to make oral health achievable, those puppy kisses are sure to please.

This article was provided by Cobber’s Pet Pantry.