February Is National Pet Dental Health Month!
Do you brush your pet's teeth? Yes, brush their teeth. Those paws lack an opposable thumb which makes it nearly impossible for them to hold a thoothbrush; leaving the responsibility of their oral health in your hands -- with your opposable thumbs.
Damage to the tongue, teeth, palate and gums can lead to many health risks for animals, but these can be prevented with regular vet check-ups and good old-fashioned tooth brushings.Just like training your children, it helps to familiarize them with the proccess when they're young. Also, make sure you get the correct tools for the job -- a toothbrush designed for your pet's size, a finger toothbrush or a non-abrasive sponge toothbush. Leave that whitening human toothpaste in the bathroom; there are some flavored toothpastes available or simply wipe away the plaque with a soft cloth. You just need to brush the outside of the teeth where 96% of tarter is located, the tongue will do the rest on the inside. Maintain your pet's teeth with daily brushings and a visit to the vet at least twice a year to prevent problems.
If your pet does develop dental problems, your vet may recommend a plaque prevention product that you can apply to your pet’s teeth and gums on a weekly basis. Several dental diets and treats can also help keep plaque and tartar to a minimum. Don't you wish those treats in your pantry did the same thing for you?! Even special pet toys can help keep teeth strong, massage the gums and scrape away soft tartar.
Regular inspection of your pet’s mouth is important to catch dental disease in the early stages. Tartar may appear as a brownish buildup on the teeth that needs to be removed by a professional. Redness or bleeding along the gumline may indicate gingivitis. Other signs of dental disease include: bad breath, drooling, pawing at the mouth, difficulty chewing, and loose or missing teeth. Be sure to get your friend into the vet if you notice any of these signs since they could be indications of a hidden problem as well. Your furry friend will thank you!
Photo by Guinnevere Shuster