You take good care of your own teeth. You brush daily, floss regularly, and visit the dentist at least once a year.
What about your pet?
Clean teeth and healthy gums are just as important to our animal companions as they are to us. Yet, the majority of dogs and cats over the age of 3 years have already developed some type of dental problem.
Without the proper care and attention, tartar and bacteria can build up in your pet’s mouth, eventually leading to a more serious medical condition known as periodontal disease. If not treated, dental disease can spread infection throughout the entire body, causing problems with the heart, kidneys and lungs and potentially shortening your pet’s life.
You can greatly help your four-legged friend by making a commitment to regular dental care, both professional and at home. Smyrna Animal Hospital offers comprehensive pet dentistry services to keep your companion smiling pretty for life. Our team is experienced in performing routine, preventative care, such as exams, cleaning and extractions. Even if you have never given your pet’s dental care a second thought, it is never too late to start!
Some signs that your pet may be experiencing a dental problem include:
- Bad breath
- Yellow, broken or missing teeth
- Red, swollen or bleeding gums
- Difficulty chewing
- Pawing at the face
- Excessive drooling
If you happen to notice one or more of these symptoms in your dog or cat, it is time to schedule a professional dental checkup. The sooner we can get the problem under control, the better the outcome for your four-legged friend.
Annual or even semi-annual exams and cleanings are not always enough to keep plaque and tartar at bay. It’s therefore important that you are brushing your pet’s teeth at least three times a week (daily, if possible) to help maintain a healthy mouth. If you need assistance, we would be happy to provide a demonstration of brushing techniques, as well as offer recommendations on products that you can use in between vet visits to promote strong teeth and healthy gums.
You want the very best for your animal companion, and so do we. Make sure that you’re including dental care as part of his or her overall health care plan. Together we will work hard to help your four-legged friend achieve a lifetime of good oral health.
