February is Pet Dental Awareness Month! 😺

February is Pet Dental Health Month, an essential and often overlooked observance for pet parents. While it may not be as widely celebrated as other pet-related events, such as adoption or appreciation days, it holds significant importance.

This month is a crucial reminder that our furry companions need proper dental care. Their teeth require regular attention and maintenance akin to our own, and neglecting this aspect of their health can lead to various issues.

What Is Dental Disease?

Dental disease affects the teeth, gums, and structures that support and surround a pet's teeth. It begins with plaque buildup on the teeth. This plaque contains bacteria and food particles. Plaque that stays on the teeth hardens into tartar. When tartar is above the gum line, it's easily visible, and your veterinarian can remove it relatively easily during a professional dental cleaning.

However, looks can be deceiving. A set of pearly whites doesn't necessarily mean your pet's mouth is healthy. Tartar that makes its way below the gum line is the real problem. Tartar below the gum line causes inflammation, damages the structures supporting the teeth, and causes infection. When the dental disease reaches this stage, pets can experience severe dental problems and pain.

Signs that your pet has a dental disease:

• Broken teeth

• Loose teeth

• Bad breath

• Painful and bleeding mouth

• Refusal or inability to eat and drink

• Drooling

Why Is Pet Dental Care Important?

As a pet parent, you want your pet to have a healthy mouth. Here are five reasons why good dental care is essential:

1. Preventing tooth loss. When the structures supporting a dog’s teeth become damaged or infected, the teeth loosen and fall out.

2. Preventing bad breath. When your pet has a healthy mouth and healthy teeth, bad breath won't be a problem.

3. Preventing oral pain. Dental disease, especially when it's severe, can be pretty painful for pets.

4. Preventing organ damage. Bacteria in the plaque can enter the bloodstream and spread to the heart, kidneys, and liver. This spread of bacteria, called bacteremia, can damage organs and make pets quite sick.

5. Preventing worsening dental disease. Because so many pets have dental disease by the time they're three years old, it can be challenging to prevent it from developing in the first place.

How Can I Get Plaque Off My Pet's Teeth?

Dental care for pets includes annual professional dental cleanings at a veterinarian’s office and regular at-home dental care. Here are a few things you can do at home to help maintain your pets teeth:

• Brush your pet's teeth. Brushing your furry companion's teeth a few days a week is a great way to maintain oral health. Use a pet-safe toothpaste recommended by your veterinarian.

• Give your pet dental treats. Not all dogs and cats like brushing their teeth; try some dental treats that help remove tarter buildup and freshen their breath.

• Provide your dog with dental toys. Some are designed to clean a dog's teeth and even freshen breath. These toys are durable, so your dog can chew on them to their heart's content.

Professional pet teeth cleanings require general anesthesia to allow your veterinarian to clean above and below the gum line and ensure your pet's mouth is cleaned. So, talk with your veterinarian to determine the best options for your pet’s dental care routine.

Dental cleanings can be costly, especially if your pet has severe periodontal disease and needs some teeth extracted. Prices can range from $250-1500.00.

Last year, we helped 7 cats and 2 dogs with the cost of their much-needed dental surgeries. 🐈 🐕 If you would like to help a pet with the cost of a dental cleaning, please donate below: