When was the last time you had your pet’s teeth cleaned? According to the AVMA, pets who have never had a teeth cleaning have signs of dental disease by the time they are three years old. For that reason, Animal Wellness Centre of Wesley Chapel recommends that all pets have a yearly dental cleaning and oral examination.

Gum Disease in Dogs and Cats

Dogs and cats can develop similar dental issues as humans, such as gingivitis, periodontal disease, tooth decay, discoloration, and cavities. The process of dental problems begins when your pet eats, as food particles adhere to their teeth and gums. This provides nourishment to oral bacteria, triggering an acid attack on the tooth enamel and forming a sticky, transparent substance called plaque. When plaque hardens, it becomes tartar. If left untreated on your pet's teeth, plaque and tartar can lead to conditions like gingivitis, periodontal disease, cavities, and oral infections over time.

Signs of Dental Disease in Pets

When it comes to safeguarding your pet's oral health, it's essential for owners to be attentive to changes in their behavior, as pets tend to conceal their discomfort until it becomes severe. If you notice any of the mentioned signs, please reach out to us promptly so we can arrange a dental checkup, teeth cleaning, and gum disease treatment to ensure your pet's well-being.

• Broken or Loose Teeth
• Discomfort While Eating
• Extremely Bad Breath
• Drooling
• Red Gums
• Staining on the Teeth
• Swollen or Inflamed Gums
• Weight Loss or Loss of Appetite

The Hazards of Untreated Periodontal Disease in Pets

Untreated periodontal disease in dogs and cats can lead to dangerous infections, like abscesses and blood infections. Advanced dental disease may also affect your pet’s heart, liver and kidneys. In order to avoid these potentially life-threatening conditions, it is important to keep your pet’s teeth clean with a combination of at-home care and regular veterinary teeth cleanings.

Pet Dental Cleanings in Wesley Chapel

At Animal Wellness Centre of Wesley Chapel, we recommend dogs and cats receive an initial dental checkup shortly after weaning and then annually thereafter. Pet dental checkups include an examination of your pet’s head, neck, face, ears and mouth in order to spot any potential health issues. Once the basic examination is complete, we perform a complete cleaning, removing all plaque and tartar from your pet's teeth and below the gum line. Once your pet’s teeth are clean, we can give you tips and tricks to maintain your pet's oral health between professional cleanings, like pet-safe toothpaste and toothbrushes as well as dental chews.

To learn more about our veterinary dental services and how they can protect the health of your pet, call us at (813) 991-6126 today.