Poor dental hygiene can put both your pet’s health and your pocket book at risk. “Dog breath”—or a cat with a foul-smelling mouth—can be a sign of untreated dental conditions. If continued to be left untreated, you could be putting your pet at risk for greater problems, such as periodontitis or heart disease.
Routine cleanings can help prevent periodontal disease and save money in the long run. A 2014 analysis conducted by Veterinary Pet Insurance Co. showed that the average cost per pet to prevent dental disease is just one-third of the average cost of treating dental disease.
More importantly, a complete oral examination can detect hidden health problems. Even if your pet’s breath smells fine, there still could be dental conditions that are hard to spot without a complete veterinary exam. Your pet’s teeth should be checked sooner if any of these problems are observed:
- bad breath
- broken or loose teeth
- teeth that are discolored or covered in tartar
- abnormal chewing, drooling, or dropping food from the mouth
- reduced appetite or refusal to eat
- pain in or around the mouth
- bleeding from the mouth
- swelling in the areas surrounding the mouth
At your pet’s dental checkup, our veterinarians will do a thorough checkup to make sure your pet is at optimum health. We also can show you how to brush your pet’s teeth in between exams. Brushing is the single most effective thing you can do to keep your pet’s teeth healthy between dental cleanings. We are committed to your pet’s health and well-being, and we know that you are as well.
