February is Pet Dental Health Awareness month!
Just as good oral hygiene is very important for humans, it is also important for your family pet. There are many effective ways to maintain your pet’s oral hygiene and prevent plaque (bacteria) accumulation. Routine brushing, oral rinses, dental chews, dental diets and routine dental prophylaxis by a veterinary health care professional are just a few ways to provide good oral care and ensure good general health.
Plaque begins to form when bacterial accumulate on and around the teeth. Often you will notice a dark colored material on the teeth closest to the gum. Plaque that grows against the gum tissue causing inflammation is called gingivitis. In time, plaque continues to accumulate on the tooth and under the gum leading to further infection in the gum and bone called periodontal disease. When periodontal disease is identified it is important to address the condition as soon as possible. Early treatment may save a tooth and avoid other diseases that occur from bacteria in the mouth circulating throughout the body affecting organs such as the liver, kidneys and heart, just to name a few.
How would a pet owner know that their pet has an oral hygiene issue? At home, one may notice bad breath, difficulties eating, and or swellings of the gum and face. A routine physical exam by a veterinary professional would identify potential issues and he or she would provide you with the best course of action.
In an effort to increase the awareness of dental pet health, the Bellevue Animal Hospital as well as the Sandusky Animal Hospital, will once again offer a 10% discount on routine dental cleanings during the month of February in 2016. Please call to schedule an appointment or to ask a team member for assistance regarding your pet’s dental hygiene. Additional days in February have been allotted for dental procedures, however, appointment times are limited so call soon!
Contact us at Bellevue Animal Hospital at (419) 483-6345 or Sandusky Animal Hospital at (567) 256-3615 today!
-Blog Post Written By Dr. Clark
