Pet dental care is of the utmost importance when it comes to overall veterinary services. At Granada Veterinary Clinic in Mission Hills, we would like to answer some of your most common questions regarding pet dental care. Here are some frequently asked questions about pet dental care to help you keep your furry friend's smile healthy and bright.
Why Is Pet Dental Care Important?
Pet dental care is important for the same reasons that human dental care is important. Preventing tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health problems is very important. Just like humans, our pets need regular brushing and professional cleanings to maintain good oral health.
Why Do Pets Get Periodontal Disease?
Just like humans, our pets are susceptible to developing periodontal disease. This is a serious infection of the gums and tissues around the teeth that can lead to tooth loss. Periodontal disease is caused by the build-up of plaque and tartar on the teeth.
Plaque is a substance that can eventually turn into harmful conditions for your pet, like tartar. Tartar is hardened plaque that has been left on the teeth for too long. If not removed, plaque and tartar will irritate the gums and cause them to become red, swollen, and inflamed. This condition is called gingivitis. If left untreated, gingivitis will progress into periodontitis. These pockets collect more plaque and tartar, which leads to further irritation and inflammation.
How Can a Veterinarian Help with My Pet’s Teeth?
Good dental care is essential for your pet's overall health. A veterinary care professional can help you ensure that your pet's teeth are healthy and clean. Here are a few ways we can help with your pet's teeth:
- We can perform a dental cleaning. This involves removing tartar and plaque from the teeth and gums. It's important to have this done regularly, as tartar can lead to gum disease and tooth loss.
- We provide guidance on at-home dental care. This includes things like choosing the right toothbrush and toothpaste for your pet, as well as demonstrating proper brushing techniques.
- There are times you may have other questions about the prevention of diseases, which we're here to answer.
If further work is needed, such as an extraction or other surgery, we can recommend that as well. Either way, your pet's dental health is the most important thing to us.
Contact Our Veterinary Clinic for Dental Work
Don't hesitate to get in touch with Granada Veterinary Clinic in Mission Hills for your pet's dental needs. Preventative measures go a long way in helping your pet lead a happy and healthy life. Our veterinarian looks forward to providing the care that your pet needs. Call our team today at (818) 361-0125 to learn more or to book a session.
