One of the most effective things that pet owners can do is make sure that their furry friend has quality dental health. Dental issues can cause a host of physical problems for your pet, and they are usually entirely avoidable. If you’re a pet owner that’s curious about how to take care of your pet’s teeth, then you’ll want to keep reading. Here are a few things that you can do to help your four-legged friend stay as healthy as possible.

Signs of Poor Dental Health

If you’re wondering whether or not your pet has poor dental health, rest-assured there are usually symptoms that serve as tell-tale signs that there is a problem. Some of the most obvious signs of poor dental health in pets include:

• Bad breath
• Swollen gums
• Bleeding gums
• Excessive drooling
• Plaque build-up
• Difficulty chewing

Sometimes, it may not be obvious that your pet is in pain or that there is a problem at all. That is why regular check-ups are necessary to ensure that your pet’s dental health is in prime working order. If your pet has any of the above symptoms, then it may be time to schedule a visit with your veterinarian.

Treatment Options

It’s a good idea for pet owners to treat dental issues before they begin. If you want to help protect your pet’s teeth, then here are a few tips to follow.

· Diet

Make sure that you’re feeding your animal high-quality pet food. If you’re unsure of which food is right for your pet, make sure to consult your veterinarian.

· Water

Make sure that your pet has access to water to flush their mouths after eating. You don’t want your pet to have any food left between their gums and teeth, as this could lead to inflammation and infection.

· Dental Chews

Dental chews are a great option to help your pet clean their gums and get fresh breath. There are a variety of dental chews in the market, and your veterinarian can help direct you to the best one for your pet.

At-Home Dental Kits

Just like people, your pet can benefit from a regular dental routine. There are at-home dental kits complete with a toothbrush and toothpaste that can be used to remove any built-up plaque on your pet’s teeth.

Ongoing Dental Care

While pet owners can certainly help their animal with day-to-day dental maintenance, don’t forget the importance of care from your veterinarian. Make sure that your pet is receiving annual dental exams, x-rays, and a professional look at their gums and roots. Doing so could help your pet avoid costly dental issues in the future. Plus, it’ll give you the peace of mind that your pet is in their best health possible.

Overview

Port Royal Veterinary Hospital provides exceptional service to all patients. We want to be sure that you are as informed as possible when it comes to your pet’s health. If you have additional questions about your pet’s dental care, please reach out to us. For a dental exam, please contact our office to schedule your next visit. We look forward to working with you!