Why Pet Dental Care is Important

Like us, cats and dogs can get dental problems and diseases. Medical problems that start in the mouth can lead to other health issues elsewhere in the body. If you live in or around Oakwood, GA, contact one of our veterinarians at South Hall Veterinary Hospital to schedule an appointment for dental care and cleaning for your dog or cat.

Periodontal Disease

By the age of three, over 70% of cats and 80% of dogs will have some form of dental disease. That's why early detection is essential. Periodontal disease is the most common dental disease in dogs and cats. It begins with plaque buildup that hardens into tartar. Tartar found below the gum line is easier to see and remove during your dog teeth cleaning.

If tartar forms above the gumline, it may cause damage or an infection. If the periodontal disease worsens, it could cause severe problems and pain for your pet, not just in the mouth. Bacteria found in the plaque could enter the bloodstream and spread to the heart, kidneys, and liver causing organ damage making your pet sick.

The Signs & Symptoms

There are some easy ways to tell if your pet is having problems with his or her teeth. Some of these signs and symptoms include the following:

• bad breath
• broken or loose teeth
• having extra teeth or still having baby teeth
• teeth with discoloration or covered in tartar
• abnormal chewing
• drooling or dropping food from the mouth
• reduced appetite or refusing to eat
• pain in or around the mouth
• bleeding from the mouth
• swelling around the mouth

If your cat or dog has any of these symptoms, you should take your pet to the animal clinic to get a dental check-up as soon as possible. Your veterinarian will determine the cause of these symptoms and suggest a course of action to fix the problem.

Preventative Measures

Due to most cats and dogs having a form of dental disease by the age of three, getting your pet's teeth cleaned and checked regularly is very important. Maintaining good dental care can help prevent the disease from becoming worse. Between visits to your veterinarian's office, you can brush your pet's teeth daily and give your pet dental treats and toys. These at-home forms of dental care can freshen your pet's breath and break up plaque. Speak to our veterinarian about scheduling an annual cat or dog teeth cleaning for a more thorough dental care.

Pet Dental Care in Oakwood, GA

To maintain your pet's overall health, call South Hall Veterinary Hospital today at (770) 532-4449 to schedule an appointment with one of our veterinarians. We can help with your pet's dental care as well as provide a variety of veterinary services to keep your furry friend happy and healthy.