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Why does my pet need dental care?

Imagine what your teeth would look like if you never brushed them! Just like in humans, without proper dental care your pet can develop serious periodontal disease. Periodontal disease damages the soft tissue and bone surrounding the teeth. This leads to pain, loose teeth and infection. In the case of a serious infection, bacteria can enter the bloodstream and damage the kidneys, liver, lungs and heart.

You should have your veterinarian examine your pet’s mouth on a regular basis. Regular dental cleanings at our hospital remove tartar and plaque, and treat diseased teeth and gums. Dental home care is also very important. Our staff can show you how to brush your pet’s teeth, which is the best way to prevent periodontal disease. If your pet will not tolerate brushing, we can also recommend other products such as water additives, mouth rinses, dental chews and dental diets.

For more information on dental care, and for videos on how to brush your pet’s teeth, please check out the Pet Health section of our website.