How to take care of your pet’s oral health
Hey dog and cat lovers and owners, this post is for you!
Before we begin, all of you know, By The Lake Dental looks after human teeth! However, we recognize that pets are cherished members of many families in our community. April is Oral health month…and from our point of view, for your pets too! Which is why we’re bringing this blog post to you, in collaboration with our local business neighbour, Highland Creek Animal Clinic, to provide information about dog and cat dental health. In this post, you'll find helpful tips for preventing and treating dental issues in dogs and cats.
As a pet parent, one of the most distressing things to witness is your furry friend in pain. Our furry family member cannot tell us they are in pain and may not always show it. Dental disease in dogs and cats can be caused by a variety of factors, including gum disease, tooth decay, or a broken tooth. If left untreated, it can lead to severe pain, infection, and even tooth loss. No different than in our own mouths!
Cats and small dog breeds, such as Chihuahuas, Pomeranians and Toy Poodles are more likely to develop periodontal disease, a common cause of toothaches in our pets. This is due to their smaller jaws, which can cause overcrowding and make it difficult to maintain proper oral hygiene. However, it's important to note that any dog or cat can develop periodontal disease, regardless of their species. Regular dental checkups and good oral hygiene are crucial in preventing dental disease.
Prevention and Treatment
According to Dr. Stephen Watts, Veterinarian and owner of Highland Creek Animal Clinic preventing dental issues in dogs and cats starts with good oral hygiene. This includes brushing your pets' teeth daily, (with an enzymatic pet toothpaste), providing dental chews, dental diets and scheduling regular dental checkups with your veterinarian.
If your dog or cat is already experiencing dental issues, there are several treatment options available. These include:
Dental cleaning: This involves removing tartar and plaque buildup from your pets' teeth.
Dental Xrays : To investigate underlying issues beneath the gumline.
Extractions: If your pet's tooth is severely damaged, it may need to be extracted.
Referral to a veterinary dental specialist: in case of root canals, tooth capping etc.
In conclusion, dental disease in our pets can be a painful and distressing experience for both the pet and the owner. Regular dental checkups, good oral hygiene, and prompt treatment are essential in preventing and treating dental disease in our furry friends.
If the “human side” of your family needs dental care, book an appointment at By The Lake Dental. However, if the “pet side” needs dental services, we encourage you to check out the Highland Creek Animal Clinic website.
By The Lake Dental offers:
✅ +10 years caring for our community’s oral health needs
✅ A Platinum Invisalign dental office
✅ Direct billing to benefit provider
✅ Cutting-edge technology
✅ Full service family care
✅ Concierge experience
𝗪𝗲´𝗿𝗲 𝗮𝗰𝗰𝗲𝗽𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗡𝗘𝗪 𝗣𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗘𝗡𝗧𝗦
Call us today: Ajax 905-428-2111, Highland Creek 416-284-8282.
