Dental hygiene is important for humans and it's just as important for pets. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, 85% of dogs and cats over the age of three have some form of dental disease. That's a lot of plaque and tartar buildup. If you want your pet to have healthy teeth and gums, you need to start practicing proper pet dental care. At North Central Animal Hospital in Phoenix, we offer the best pet dental care services for your furry friend.

Common Pet Dental Problems

As we mentioned, the vast majority of pets suffer from some form of dental disease. The most common problems are plaque and tartar buildup, gingivitis, and periodontal disease. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth. If it's not removed, it can harden into tartar.

Tartar is difficult to remove and can lead to gingivitis, which is an inflammation of the gums. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress into periodontal disease, which damages the bones and tissues that support the teeth and gums. Most of these issues can cause tooth pain, bad breath, and even tooth infections.

Give Your Pet Dental Treats

One way to promote dental health in dogs is by giving them dental treats. These are specially-formulated biscuits or chews that help reduce plaque and tartar buildup as your dog gnaws on them. Dental treats come in a variety of flavors, shapes, and sizes, so you're sure to find one that your pup will love. Dental treats should not replace teeth brushing. They are a great way to supplement your dog's at-home oral care routine.

Take Your Dog for Regular Checkups

Even if you brush your dog's teeth regularly at home and give them dental treats, it's still important to take them for regular checkups with a veterinarian. Your veterinarian will be able to spot any problems that you may have missed and provide professional teeth cleanings as needed. We offer dog teeth cleaning sessions that will help your pet avoid bad breath and tooth pain.

Schedule a Consultation for Comprehensive Pet Dental Care

Our veterinarians at North Central Animal Hospital are here to help you keep your pet's teeth clean and healthy. If your pet needs dental care services, don't hesitate to give us a call or visit our office in Phoenix. We treat everything so whether your pet has a tooth infection, bad breath, gum problems, or you need dog teeth cleaning session, schedule a consultation for a checkup. Call our team today at (602) 395-9773 or reach us through our website by using our online contact form.