It is estimated that nearly 75 percent of all pets do not receive adequate dental care, and that they will have some form of dental disease by the time they are three years of age. This is a shocking statistic, especially considering that pet dental care is a part of their wellness care, and that dental issues are so easily avoided with proper care from veterinary hospitals. One of the most common dental diseases is periodontal disease.

Veterinary Hospitals Can Prevent Periodontal Disease

Everybody has heard of dog breath, but overly aromatic breath can be an indication of a more serious problem; periodontal disease. Periodontal disease occurs when the pet’s gums become infected. It begins as plaque which can build up on the teeth. This plaque becomes calcified and forms tartar. More plaque is attracted to the build-up of tartar, and the problem keeps mounting until the gums become infected with gingivitis. Gingivitis causes the gums to become red and swollen, and they bleed easily.

If left untreated, the plaque and tartar can build up under the gum line, and infection can invade the root of the tooth. This infection can destroy the tissue around the root of the tooth, and the tooth becomes loose and may fall out. This is very painful for any pet.

Oral examinations and dental cleanings are the proactive steps you can take to keep your pet’s teeth and gums healthy. The oral exam can identify potential problems with the teeth, and it can identify any tartar. Our veterinarian in Suffolk will need to administer a short-lived anesthetic in order to give your pet a dental cleaning. This will remove any tartar build up and allow a closer examination of the pet’s teeth.

Our North Suffolk Animal Hospital is convenient to Smithfield, Hampton, and Newport News. Call today; a veterinarian would be happy to give your pet an oral exam and get you started on a pet dental wellness program. Get rid of that doggy breath today!

Brushing your pet's teeth between visits is a great way to keep up their good dental health. Do you have any amusing pet teeth brushing stories you would like to share?