When it comes to pet care, most furry parents will be meticulous about vaccinations and then only rush them to the vet when they develop a medical condition or are involved in an accident. Although taking this approach may seem economical in the long run, it also presents an opportunity to overlook dental care. Since dogs do not clean their teeth, it becomes incredibly easy for minor dental problems to accelerate into dental emergencies. And some dental emergencies may even prove life-threatening, meaning you could be putting your pet's life at risk. If you have never considered routine dental checkups for your pet, here are two main reasons why it should be a top priority.
Periodontitis
Periodontal disease is just as prevalent in dogs as it is in humans. Your pet becomes at risk of periodontitis if they are accumulating a considerable amount of plaque on their teeth. The more plaque that is present, the higher the chances of subsequent oral problems such as bacterial contamination, cavities, tooth loss and gum recession. The first thing you will notice when your dog has started to develop periodontitis is unusually foul-smelling breath.
Additionally, you may also notice that your dog is in pain, especially when they are eating. To prevent periodontitis, you should aspire to brush your pet's teeth on an occasional basis. Additionally, you should take your pet to the local vet for thorough cleaning as well as an oral inspection.
Tooth damage
Dogs will gnaw on anything. From old bones to timber that is lying around, your pet will find something to chew on. Over time, the teeth can develop cracks and chips. If these minor damages are not fixed, it increases the chances of your dog developing tooth decay, too. Once tooth decay has set in, your pet will find it challenging to chew their food, and this can lead to malnutrition. Your dog could also lose their teeth if the decay is left unchecked.
Furthermore, the pain your dog is experiencing, coupled with the lack of nutrition, means that they will have no energy and a lacklustre disposition. It is essential to have your vet provide routine dental care to your dog so that any signs of tooth damage are addressed before they become aggravated. Moreover, your vet can provide you with treats and chew toys that will be much better suited for gnawing on, as they will not cause any damage to your pet's teeth. Talk to a vet, like those at Adelaide Animal Emergency & Referral Centre, to learn more.
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