Just like humans, animals need dental care. Dental problems that your pet may experience can become worse, and can also cause other health problems. Therefore, it is important to take pet dental care seriously and go to the vet at least once a year. Qualified veterinarians will be able to perform a dental check-up on your pet.
Examining Your Pet’s Teeth
This check-up includes a couple of different actions. Your vet will perform an oral exam, and decide if x-rays will be necessary. Many dental diseases cannot be seen with a typical cleaning, which includes plaque removal and polishing. This is why your pet may need dental x-rays so that your vet will be able to see if the jaw and tooth roots are experiencing any decay or other issues.
What To Look For
There are some symptoms that you will want to take note of; after all, your pet cannot tell you what is hurting them! If you notice that your pet is experiencing any of the following issues, please take them to see a veterinarian for pet dental care.
- Particularly bad breath or abnormal chewing
- Bleeding, swelling, or pain in or around the mouth
- Eating less and less
- Teeth are loose or fall out
In general, changes in your pet’s behavior warrants a trip to the veterinarian, but make sure that they are also getting dental care if you notice any irritability.
Potential Dental Problems
You do not want to see your pet in pain. Proactive dental care is the best way you can ensure that your pet will stay healthy. However, dental problems can occur, just like with humans. Periodontal disease is the most common problem, but issues such as broken or infected teeth, tumors in the mouth, a cleft palate, or a misaligned bite are all conditions your pet can face.
If your pet has not been to the veterinarian for dental care in over a year, contact Metro Vet today. Our staff is fully qualified to perform pet dental care on your loved one.
Courtesy of: AVMA
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