February is Pet Dental Health Month
The American Veterinary Medical Association along with the American Veterinary Dental College, the American Veterinary Dental Society, the Academy of Veterinary Dentistry, and the Veterinary Oral Health Council has declared February Pet Dental Health Month.
Oral disease is the most frequently diagnosed health problem for pets. Oral disease can lead to long term health issues such as heart disease, liver disease, and poor nutritional status.
Periodontal disease is the most common disease in dogs and cats, the importance of dental health is often overlooked by pet owners. More than 85% of dogs and cats over four years of age suffer from periodontal disease. Bad breath is usually the first sign of this condition. The same bacterium that causes bad breath, if left untreated, can spread through the blood stream and damage the kidneys, heart, and other organs. Other signs of periodontal disease include bleeding gums; loss of appetite; pawing at the face; irritability, lethargy, and depression. Your pet is never too old for routine dental care. You can reduce the risk of periodontal disease with a comprehensive dental examination, professional dental cleaning, and good home preventative care.
For pets with no prior periodontal problems we recommend a yearly oral exam and cleaning. For pets that have been previously diagnosed with periodontal disease, we recommend they be seen every six months to keep their mouth healthy and pain-free. Our dental services include: routine cleaning and polishing, extractions, digital x-rays, and oral surgery. We also have access to dental specialists. Home care is also extremely important and we offer many items to aid you in the care of your pet’s teeth; including flavored/edible toothpastes (never use human toothpaste); specially designed tooth brushes; weekly plaque prevention kits; oral rinses; and dental chews with enzymatic properties.
We also offer a special dental diet for dogs. All of these items can help to reduce tartar build-up on your pet’s teeth before or after a dental cleaning. It is extremely important to start these preventatives at an early age so that your pet learns to tolerate them. However, not all animals will allow brushing which is why we offer so many other alternatives. It is never too late to start taking care of your pet’s teeth; please call or come in to speak with one of our staff to discuss the best option for your pet.
This post is brought to you by Town Center Animal Hospital (Nominated Pet Friendly V.A.R. business. Town Center AH currently has a dental special starting at $99. Call (702) 262-1300 to set up your appointment. http://www.TownCenterVet.com
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