Just as you take steps to preserve the oral health of your family, you should also be vigilant about your pet’s dental health. Strong, healthy teeth and gums have proven to be important to many other aspects of health, according to recent research. Cat and dog teeth cleaning from your Oklahoma City veterinary clinic Lakeview Pet Hospital is essential to pet dental health and preventative care.
Signs of Bacteria
When there is an abundance of bacteria in the mouth, many related problems can arise. Bacteria can lead to the presence of tartar and plaque that can eventually cause periodontal disease. This condition is characterized by:
- Red, inflamed gums
- Swelling
- Bleeding gums
- Mouth pain and discomfort
- Receding gums
Unchecked mouth bacteria can also lead to cavities and weakened teeth. This can then, in turn, make the teeth more vulnerable to chipping and cracking. It can also lead to cavities, tooth decay, and tooth infections.
All of these issues lead to increased levels of bacteria in the bloodstream and throughout the body. This can tax the immune system and cause it to function less optimally. It can increase levels of toxins in the organs and lead to an increased risk of heart disease or problems with the digestive organs.
Annual Dental Exams Key to Pet Dental Health
Because of this, regular dental exams are as important for your pet as they are for people. Your pet’s teeth should be examined at least once per year or if/when they ever demonstrate signs of problems. Some of the symptoms of an oral or dental health issue include:
- Discolored teeth
- Bad Breath
- Chipped or broken tooth
- Difficulty chewing
- Loss of appetite
- Irritability, fur loss or other signs of stress
Pet dentistry from your Oklahoma City veterinarian Lakeview Pet Hospital begins with a visual exam as well as taking X-rays to look for signs of decay. After a thorough examination, the proper course of oral health treatment for your pet will be determined.
At a minimum, your pet’s teeth will be thoroughly cleaned and polished. If one or more teeth have problems, these will be addressed accordingly. Periodontal disease is one of the most common pet dental health issues pets’ faces, and regular cleanings are the best defense against this condition.
Expert Care From Oklahoma City Veterinarian Lakeview Pet Hospital
For any other problems, your Oklahoma City veterinarian Lakeview Pet Hospital will utilize state of the art tools and techniques to address the issue thoroughly and efficiently. In most cases, anesthesia will be required for cat and dog teeth cleaning. However, we will run a full blood test to verify it is safe for your pet to receive anesthesia so that both you and your pet can stay relaxed during the entire process.