While it’s something we do twice a day, many owners don’t realize the importance dental care plays in maintaining their pet’s overall health. 

At PetMedic Hospitals, we take pet dental care seriously because we know how impactful it can be to your pet’s wellbeing. One of the most effective ways to ensure your pet’s overall health is by regularly checking their teeth, gums, and oral cavity.  Just like humans, if we neglect our pet’s teeth, problems will quickly arise. 

Why should I get my pet’s teeth cleaned? 

Poor dental hygiene doesn’t just lead to bad breath. Because the gums are a boundary to the bloodstream, this means if they are neglected, it can pose a serious risk to your pet’s organs. 

Without regular brushings, bacteria builds up on the teeth turning into plaque, which then hardens and turns into tartar. This can spread resulting in gum disease, tooth decay, and pain. If you’ve ever had a toothache, you can understand that this pain can be often excruciating.  

It’s important to be mindful of potential issues with your pet because they likely won’t show signs of pain until the issue has progressed for some time. This is because both dogs and cats have evolved to hide their pain. It’s in their natural instincts to not show their weakness. 

What are some signs my pet has issues with their oral health? 

We recommend doing routine dental checks, which you can perform at home (if your pet lets you) or any time they’re visiting the vet. If your pet is experiencing any of the following symptoms, please schedule an appointment at your nearest PetMedic hospital: 

• Plaque and tartar build-up
• Discoloration of teeth or gums
• Swollen and bleeding gums
• Growths on gums or inside mouth
• Tooth Resorption
• Loose teeth
• Drooling
• Decreased appetite / Changes in appetite
  

How often does my pet need a dental cleaning? 

While this answer isn’t one-size-fits-all, we recommend all adult (2 and older) pets get a routine dental cleaning once per year. Small breeds of dogs and cats may require more frequent dental cleanings due to their shallow roots and overcrowding of teeth. It is best to consult your veterinarian on creating a dental hygiene schedule best suited for your pet.

How much do dental cleanings cost? 

Making excellent veterinary care hassle-free and affordable has always been our goal. To help us achieve this, we proudly offer our dental cleaning package for only $199! (Valued $399)

This includes a dental exam, bloodwork panel, anesthesia, and teeth cleaning. Our Wellness Plans also include our dental cleaning package (along with much more!) starting at only $35 a month! 

This price does not include dental radiographs or extractions, if necessary. 

How can I maintain my pet’s dental health in between cleanings? 

Maintaining your pet’s dental hygiene is simple and can be done at home. Start off with buying a pet-friendly toothbrush and toothpaste. Do NOT use human toothpaste, as the fluoride is toxic to dogs. Small toothbrushes that attach to the tip of your finger can also be found online. We recommend making sure your pet is used to having fingers in their mouth before doing doing so!

If you own a young pet, be sure to get them in the routine of brushing right away! If your pet is a bit more stubborn, you can also try using dental cleaning wipes. Like us, it is ideal to brush your pet’s teeth twice a day. Try to brush for at least 30 seconds on each side to remove the bacteria and plaque. 

Along with brushing, we also recommend dental chews and plenty of chew toys. While dental chews are specifically designed to help with tartar and bad breath, any act of chewing helps scrape off plaque. 

Want to schedule your pet’s next visit? We offer real-time, instant online booking. Appointments can be scheduled here.