The Need for Dog Dental Care and Cat Dental Care
Owning a pet frequently means having to address various veterinary needs, from emergency care to basic wellness practices such as vaccinations and spaying or neutering. In your efforts to take care of all these issues, dog dental examinations or cat dental cleanings may not seem important -- but they are! by keeping your pet's teeth and gums in good working order, you are actually helping to preserve his health and quality of life for years to come.
Dogs and cats rely on their mouths not only for eating but also for gripping objects, so their teeth and gums are constantly subjected to bacteria from food, dirt and other sources. Bacteria flock to tartar, a rough substance on the teeth made from hardened plaque. As the bacteria eat the tartar, they also start eating into the tooth enamel, gum tissues and jaw. This deterioration can result in lost teeth, severe pain and great difficulties with eating and digestion. The damage does not always end there, either; the rampaging bacteria can travel through the bloodstream to the heart, brain and other organs. Oral cancer is another grave danger that can afflict pets, and this condition must be diagnosed and treated as early as possible. So by making sure your dog or cat gets proper dental attention on a regular basis, you could be saving not only his teeth, but his life and health as well.
Cat dental needs can prove even more specialized than dog dental needs. In addition to bacteria-related tooth decay and gum disease, cats can suffer from a condition called feline odontoclastic resorptive lesions. These "cat cavities" tend to occur in older cats, causing periodontal pain and tooth damage.
Need Veterinary in Troutdale?
Paws & Claws Pet Medical Center will be happy to perform annual checkups and cleanings on your beloved friend. Schedule an appointment today!
Does your pet carry strange things in his mouth? Tell us your stories!