Pet Dental Health 101 For The Caring Pet Parent
Just like us, our pets require regular dental hygiene to prevent disease and keep their teeth—and entire wellbeing—healthy. As dedicated pet parents, it’s important to stay on top of your pet’s dental care just like you would any other facet of their health and wellness.
Learn more about the importance of maintaining your pet’s dental health, a few tips to keep your pet’s teeth clean and healthy, and the benefits of incorporating raw and fresh food into your pet’s diet in this comprehensive guide.
Understanding the Significance of Pet Dental Health
Keeping up with your pet’s dental health is important for a variety of reasons. Poor dental hygiene leads to plaque and tartar buildup. Like in humans, tartar buildup can cause oral pain, bad breath, tooth decay, and — the most crucial to prevent — gum disease.
Periodontal disease, also known as dental disease, is common in pets, and the risk increases based on your pet’s age and size. 80%-90% of all dogs over the age of three have some level of dental disease, and 50%-90% of cats older than four.
Dental disease doesn’t just affect your pet’s teeth — it affects your pet’s gums and the structures that support your pet’s teeth. Tartar builds up below your pet’s gum line, leading to inflammation, pain, and possibly infection.
The bacteria in the plaque can also lead to further health complications. If it enters your pet’s bloodstream, it can spread to their organs, like the heart, kidneys, or liver, and cause damage.
Preventative Measures for Pet Dental Health
While there are many dental issues that your pet’s can develop, the good news is that these issues are preventable! With proper dental hygiene, you can keep your pet’s teeth, their breath fresh, and their gums healthy.
Here are a few preventative measures you can take and pet supplies you can utilize to maintain your pet’s dental health:
1. Regular Brushing
Just as you brush your teeth daily, your pet's teeth also need regular cleaning. Use a soft-bristled, pet-specific toothbrush and toothpaste recommended by your veterinarian. Never use human toothpaste for your pet — it can contain ingredients like xylitol that can be deadly to your pet.
Start slowly, allowing your pet to get accustomed to the process. Aim for gentle, circular motions, focusing on the outer surfaces of the teeth, and always offer your pet praise and treats as a reward. This helps build a positive association with brushing their teeth.
While you want to start slowly, eventually the goal is to brush your pet's teeth at least two to three times a week for optimal results.
2. Chew Toys and Dental Treats
Providing your pet with chew toys and dental treats serves a dual purpose. Not only do they provide mental stimulation and entertainment, but they also help remove plaque and tartar buildup from your pet's teeth.
Opt for toys and treats specifically designed to promote dental health, such as those with ridges and textures. As your pet chews on the toy or treat, those ridges help to scrape away plaque.
3. Regular Veterinary Check-ups
Just as you visit the dentist for routine check-ups, your pet should see the veterinarian regularly for dental examinations.
Your vet can detect early signs of dental issues such as gingivitis, periodontal disease, or dental abnormalities. They can also perform professional cleanings to remove stubborn plaque and tartar buildup that brushing alone may not eliminate.
Like us, our pets can benefit from dental cleanings every six months, but they may be recommended more often for older pets or those at a higher risk for dental disease. Talk to your vet to determine what the best schedule for your pet is.
4. Water Additives and Dental Rinses
Consider incorporating water additives or dental rinses into your pet's routine. These products can help reduce plaque and freshen breath, promoting overall dental health.
Water additives are, as the name suggests, added to your pet’s water bowl daily. Because they’re flavorless, your pet doesn’t notice the difference — but you’ll be able to smell the difference in their minty fresh breath.
Always consult with your veterinarian before introducing any new products to ensure they are safe and suitable for your pet.
5. Avoidance of Harmful Habits
While you may mean well, giving your pet certain items can do more harm for their dental health than good. Avoid giving your sugary treats, as the sugar can contribute to tooth decay. Additionally, refrain from allowing your pet to chew on hard objects such as rocks or bones, as these can cause tooth fractures or damage.
Certain toys and chews can also damage your pet’s teeth if they’re too hard. Always use the fingernail test before giving anything to your pet. If you can’t make a dent in the item with your fingernail, it’s like too hard for your pet to chew on.
6. Be Mindful of Signs of Dental Issues
The earlier you can spot signs of dental issues, the easier they will be to treat. Watch for signs of dental problems in your pet, especially as they age, and seek veterinary care promptly if you notice any of these symptoms:
- Bad breath
- Broken or loose teeth
- Discomfort or pain in their mouth
- Refusal to eat or drink
- Excessive drooling
- Swollen or bleeding gums
- Reluctance to play with chew toys
- Pawing at the mouth
Benefits of Raw and Fresh Food for Pet Dental Health
Regular dental care, including daily brushing and annual check-ups with your veterinarian, is essential for maintaining your pet's oral health. However, one often-overlooked aspect of dental care is the impact of diet.
Nutrition plays a significant role in your pet's overall health, including their dental health. Feeding them a balanced diet that's appropriate for their age, size, and dietary needs can help maintain strong teeth and gums.
While commercial kibble or dry food is convenient, it may not be the best option for promoting optimal dental hygiene. Many commercial pet foods contain high levels of carbohydrates, sugars, and fillers which contribute to plaque and tartar buildup.
Raw and fresh food diets, however, offer numerous health benefits, including improved dental health. Raw diets typically consist of raw meat, bones, organs, and vegetables, devoid of artificial additives and fillers commonly found in commercial pet foods.
A raw diet for your pet offers:
- Natural Abrasive Action: Raw bones provide natural chewing action, helping to scrape away plaque and tartar from your pet's teeth. The gnawing motion also stimulates the gums, reducing the risk of gum disease.
- Balanced Nutrients: Raw and fresh food diets are rich in essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and enzymes, crucial for maintaining strong teeth and healthy gums.
- Reduced Carbohydrates: Raw diets are low in carbohydrates and sugars, which are primary contributors to plaque formation and dental decay. By eliminating these harmful ingredients, you can reduce the risk of dental problems in your pet.
- Improved Digestion: Raw diets are easier for pets to digest compared to processed kibble, leading to better nutrient absorption and overall health.
- Fresher Breath: Raw diets help eliminate bad breath caused by bacteria and plaque buildup in the mouth, resulting in fresher breath for your pet.
Before making the switch to raw or fresh food, always consult your veterinarian to better understand your pet’s specific dietary needs. What’s most important is that your pet receives a balanced diet that’s nutritionally complete.
If you're considering transitioning your pet to a raw or fresh food diet, do so gradually to avoid digestive upset. Introduce small amounts of raw food alongside their regular diet and increase the portion over time. Monitor your pet's response and consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns.
Finding Raw Dog Food and High-Quality Pet Supplies Near You
By prioritizing your pet’s dental hygiene, you not only help protect your furry friend from dental disease and tooth decay — you help improve their overall quality of life. Starting your pet’s routine early in their life can make it easier to continue the habit well into their old age, but no matter your pet’s age, it’s never too late to take their dental health seriously.
When it comes to your pet’s dental health, the quality of food and pet supplies that you use matters. Whether you’re looking to transition your pet to a raw or fresh food diet or find the perfect toothbrush, Bark & Luv is here to help.
We know that prioritizing your pet’s dental health is paramount to their overall well-being, and our friendly, knowledgeable staff is here to help you find exactly what you need to jumpstart your pet’s dental care routine.