Barking Up the Wrong Tree: Unpacking Common Dental Issues in Pets

Maintaining good pet dental health is an integral part of your furry companion’s overall well-being. As with any family member, your pet can suffer from a variety of dental ailments that, if left untreated, could lead to serious health issues.

Understanding Pet Dental Health

Many pet owners do not realize how their pet’s dental health is directly linked to their overall health. Poor dental hygiene can lead to bacterial infections, which can spread to vital organs, including the heart and kidneys. By engaging in proper pet dental care, you can spare your pet pain and discomfort, help prevent serious complications, and even prolong their lifespan.

Anatomy of Pet Dental Health

Understanding the unique dental structure of your pet will help you care for their teeth more effectively. Dogs have 42 teeth, which is 12 more than cats. Your pet’s teeth are designed for various functions, including tearing, grinding, and chewing. These activities can be severely impacted by poor dental health, leading to discomfort or pain.

Common Dental Problems in Pets

• Periodontal Disease: One of the most common pet dental issues, periodontal disease is the result of tartar and plaque buildup, leading to inflammation of the gums.
• Tooth Decay and Cavities: Although tooth decay is less common in pets than in humans, there is still a significant risk of occurrence, caused by the breakdown of the tooth’s enamel.
• Gingivitis: Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums, typically resulting from plaque buildup.
• Tooth Loss: Tooth loss may result from trauma, genetic factors, or advanced periodontal disease.

Diagnosing Dental Issues in Pets

Regular veterinary checkups are your best means of maintaining your pet’s dental health.

Treatment and Prevention

Professional dental treatments include cleaning and scaling to remove plaque and tartar, but a root canal or tooth extraction may be necessary in more extreme cases.

The Role of Diet in Dental Health

Proper diet can help maintain your pet’s dental health. Dry kibble, for example, can help to reduce the buildup of plaque and dental chews may help clean teeth and freshen breath.