Pet Dental Health FAQs and Answers from our Reisterstown Veterinarian

There are many reasons to care about your pet's dental health, from the way his or her breath smells to the pet's overall health. Our Reisterstown veterinarian answers some frequently asked questions about pet dental health.

What Makes Pet Dental Health Important?

The same things that make human dental health important are what make it important for pets. Neglected teeth can get cavities, abscesses, and other painful conditions. When the gums are neglected, they become inflamed and get periodontal disease. This disease makes teeth fall out.

General health is also affected by dental health. An inability to eat well causes malnutrition and malaise. Infections, including periodontal disease, can spread germs to the bloodstream and harm cardiovascular health.

Finally, poor dental health leads to bad breath that makes it unpleasant to be around your pet.

What do Vets Check for at a Pet Dental Exam?

Veterinarians will check for tartar buildup, cavities, cracked teeth, abscesses, gum disease, and other such conditions. Then, treatments will be suggested based on the findings.

Which Conditions are Common in Pets?

Cracked teeth are often a problem for dogs thanks to their tendency to chew things that shouldn't be chewed. Gum disease is common in both dogs and cats, especially those that do not tolerate having their teeth brushed. In older animals, cavities become more common.

What Treatments do Vets Provide for Pet Dental Health?

For pets, the focus is on prevention. Teeth cleaning is the mainstay treatment, and the actual process works just like the cleanings given to you by your for-humans dentist. Pets, however, are sedated or anesthetized to keep them calm and still.

When cavities or cracked teeth are found, they are almost always extracted. This ends the chance of the affected teeth causing more pain and problems.

Contact Our Reisterstown Veterinarian to Schedule an Appointment for a Pet Dental Exam

To schedule a dental cleaning and checkup for your dog or cat, just make an appointment with our veterinarian here at TLC for Pets Veterinary Hospital in Reisterstown, MD. We'll get those teeth shining like new!