When you stop by for a pet exam at North Hills Animal Hospital in Sherwood, AR, Dr. Scott Campbell, or Dr. Ashley Mounts will do a quick visual check of your pet's teeth. This is to look for plaque buildup, broken teeth, or other dental problems that may require some pet dental work. You can help prevent tooth and gum disease in your pet with some routine at-home dental care. Here are some of the most common questions we hear about pet dental care.
Do I Need to Worry About Dental Problems in My Pet?
The American Veterinary Medical Association estimates that more than 70% of dogs and cats will develop periodontal disease (gum disease) after they reach five years of age. You should accept that pets can develop dental problems, and work to prevent those problems in your pet! If untreated, periodontal disease can lead to pain and discomfort, as well as bacteria in the bloodstream that can be harmful to your pet's organs.
How Do I Know Whether My Pet Needs Dental Care?
A good rule of thumb is that if you can see a problem with your pet's teeth or gums, he needs some sort of dental care. There are some specific symptoms that you should be aware of that can indicate a problem. These include a red stripe along the gumline (which indicates an infection), calculus buildup on the teeth, swollen gums, or a tooth that appears cracked, broken, or discolored. Your pet may display behavior changes that can indicate dental problems as well, such as loss of appetite, rubbing their face with a paw, or rubbing their face on the carpet.
How Often Does My Pet Need a Professional Teeth Cleaning?
This varies tremendously based on an individual pet's diet, level of activity, age, and other factors. In general, it is best to bring your pet in at least once a year for a cleaning with Dr. Scott Campbell or Dr. Ashley Mounts. Keep in mind that more frequent dental care may be recommended, depending on your pet's oral health. The best way to know for sure is to bring your pet in for that first checkup!
Call North Hills Animal Hospital for Pet Dental Care
If it is time for a pet exam or if you are looking for a regular veterinary office for pet care, contact us in Sherwood, AR at (501) 835-3577 to schedule an appointment.