Pet Dental Health
Good dental health is an extremely important part of your pet’s overall health. Dental problems can be both indicators of preexisting, undiscovered health problems, as well as the cause of health problems to come.
To maintain good oral health, it’s important to have your pet’s teeth and gums checked at least once a year and even cleaned too. Veterinary dentistry includes the cleaning, adjusting, filling, extraction, or repair of your pet’s teeth and begins with an oral examine and x-rays. Make sure to routinely check your pet’s teeth and gums at home. Should any issues arise, contact your veterinarian.
According to the American Veterinary Medical Foundation, you should keep an eye out for the following signs and symptoms of poor oral health, as well as understand the various causes of dental problems.
Signs & Symptoms of Poor Oral Health
- Bad breath
- Broken/loose teeth
- Extra teeth/retained baby teeth
- Teeth that are discolored/covered in tartar
- Abnormal chewing, drooping, or dropping food from the mouth
- Reduced appetite/refusal to eat
- Pain in or around the mouth
- Bleeding from the mouth
- Swelling in the areas surrounding the mouth
- Irritability/any sudden changes in behavior
Causes of Dental Problems
- Broken teeth and roots
- Periodontal disease
- Abscesses/infected teeth
- Cysts/tumors in the mouth
- Malocclusion or misalignments of the teeth/bite
- Broken jaw
- Palate defects
