Did you know that by age 3, a staggering 80% of dogs and 70% of cats suffer from some form of dental disease? That's a significant portion of furry friends experiencing a preventable problem with proper care.This dental neglect can lead to serious health consequences, but the good news is that with a little know-how and routine, you can keep your Alpharetta pet's smile healthy and bright for years to come. The Dangers of Untreated Dental Disease Just like us humans, pets can develop a variety of dental problems if their teeth and gums aren't cared for properly. Gingivitis, a gum inflammation caused by plaque buildup, is the most common. Left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontal disease, a serious infection that affects the tissues surrounding the teeth. This can lead to significant pain, loose teeth, and even tooth loss. But the problems don't stop there. Bacteria from infected mouths can enter the bloodstream and travel to other organs, potentially causing problems like heart disease, kidney disease, and even liver problems. Signs of Dental Disease in Pets So how can you tell if your furry friend might be suffering from dental disease? Here are some red flags to watch out for: Bad Breath: This is a classic sign of dental problems in pets. While some level of doggy breath is normal, a persistent bad smell can indicate plaque buildup and potential infection. Difficulty Eating: Does your pet seem hesitant to eat, or do they shy away from hard kibble? Pain in the mouth can make chewing uncomfortable, leading to a loss of appetite. Drooling: Excessive drooling can be a sign of discomfort or pain in the mouth. Red and Swollen Gums: Healthy gums should be pink and firm. Redness, swelling, or bleeding gums are all signs of inflammation. Pawing at the Mouth: If your pet seems to be pawing at their mouth frequently, it could be a sign that they're experiencing pain or discomfort. Brushing Your Pet's Teeth at Home The good news is that many dental problems can be prevented with a simple yet crucial routine: brushing your pet's teeth! Just like humans, regular brushing removes plaque and bacteria before they can cause problems. Here's what you'll need: Pet-specific Toothbrush: Skip the human toothbrush! Pet toothbrushes are designed with softer bristles and smaller heads to fit comfortably in your pet's mouth. Pet-safe Toothpaste: Human toothpaste can be harmful to pets if swallowed. Choose a tasty, pet-specific toothpaste formulated for their sensitive mouths. Popular flavors include chicken, poultry, and malt. Getting Started: Start slowly and be patient. Introduce your pet to the toothbrush by letting them get familiar with the taste and texture of the toothpaste on the brush outside their mouth. Gradually work your way up to gently lifting their lips and brushing the outside surfaces of their teeth. Focus on the areas where the teeth meet the gums, as this is where plaque tends to build up the most. Brushing Tips: Aim for a brushing session at least once a day, ideally twice. Short, frequent sessions are better than long, stressful ones. Start with just a few seconds and gradually increase the duration as your pet becomes more comfortable. Offer plenty of praise and positive reinforcement throughout the process. If your pet absolutely refuses to be brushed, don't despair. There are other dental care options we'll discuss later. Professional Dental Cleanings and Additional Care Even with diligent at-home brushing, professional dental cleanings are still essential for most pets. These cleanings, performed under anesthesia by your veterinarian, remove tartar buildup that brushing can't reach. They also allow for a thorough examination of your pet's mouth to identify any potential problems early on. Here are some additional dental care options to consider alongside brushing and professional cleanings: Dental Chews and Toys: These can be a great way to help control plaque and keep your pet's teeth clean between brushing sessions. However, they shouldn't be a substitute for brushing. Choose dental chews with the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal of approval, which indicates their effectiveness in reducing plaque and tartar. Dental Water Additives: For some pets, using a dental water additive in their drinking water can be a convenient way to provide additional daily plaque and tartar control. Look for additives that contain enzymes or other ingredients specifically formulated for pet dental health. Dental Treats: While not as effective as dental chews or brushing, dental treats can offer some plaque-reducing benefits and provide a tasty reward for your pet. Choose treats with a rough texture that can help scrape away plaque as your pet chews. Keeping Your Alpharetta Pet's Smile Sparkling At McGinnis Pet Hospital, we champion preventative pet care, and dental hygiene is key. Regular brushing at home, combined with professional cleanings at our Alpharetta animal hospital, keeps your furry friend's smile sparkling for years. Early detection of dental issues is crucial. Schedule an appointment with our experienced vets if you notice bad breath, eating difficulties, or red gums. We're happy to answer questions and personalize a dental care plan for your pet. Living in nearby Cumming, Roswell, Woodstock, Suwanee, Johns Creek, or Atlanta? We proudly serve pets throughout the North Fulton and South Forsyth County area. We look forward to meeting you and your furry companion!