When it comes to keeping our furry friends happy and healthy, dental care often takes a backseat to playtime, snuggles, and belly rubs. But just like us humans, dogs and cats rely on healthy teeth and gums to maintain their overall well-being. Neglecting their oral hygiene can lead to discomfort, infections, and even serious health issues. Here at Bark if You’re Dirty, we strongly believe in ensuring the health of your pets in Phoenix and Scottsdale, and offer a lot of tools to help you with dog and cat dental care. Let’s dive into why it’s such a big deal, how you can help at home, and what happens during a professional dental checkup.
The Alarming Stats You Need to Know
Did you know that 80% of dogs and 70% of cats show signs of periodontal disease by the time they’re 3 years old? According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) dental disease is one of the most common health issues in pets—but it’s also one of the most preventable!
Ignoring your pet’s dental health can lead to:
- Gum disease: Painful inflammation, bad breath, and tooth loss.
- Tooth abscesses: Infections that may spread to vital organs like the heart, kidneys, and liver.
- Difficulty eating: Leading to poor nutrition or weight loss.
Why It’s So Important to Stay on Top of Dental Care
Oral health isn’t just about preventing bad breath or saving a tooth. Here’s how regular dental care benefits your pet:
- Prevents Systemic Infections: The bacteria from gum infections can travel through the bloodstream and damage the heart, liver, and kidneys. Ouch!
- Improves Quality of Life: Healthy teeth and gums mean your pet can eat comfortably, play more, and avoid painful dental issues. We all love happy fur-babies!
- Saves You Money: Regular checkups and preventive care cost less than treating advanced dental diseases or emergency tooth extractions. We also believe that choosing the healthiest pet food is essential.
But don’t worry! With some at-home care and regular checkups, you can help your pet avoid these problems and keep their tail wagging and whiskers twitching happily.
How to Keep Their Teeth in Top Shape: Tips for At-Home Care
- Brush, Brush, Brush:
- Brushing your dog or cat’s teeth is the gold standard for at-home care. Use a soft-bristled pet toothbrush and pet-safe toothpaste (never use human toothpaste—the fluoride can be toxic!). Start slow, offering treats and praise to get them comfortable with the routine.
- Dental Chews & Treats:
- Dental treats aren’t just a tasty reward; they help scrape away plaque and reduce tartar buildup. Both of our pet stores in Phoenix and Scottsdale carry a ton of really amazing products for your pets pearly whites including: Plaque off Bones and Ark Naturals Brushless Toothpate Sticks
- Chew Toys:
- For dogs, durable chew toys made of rubber or nylon can help massage gums and keep teeth clean. Cats may enjoy dental toys designed to clean while they play. Some of our fan faves include: Tuffy brand toys which offer a wide variety of tough and durable toys for all levels of chewers.
- Water Additives:
- Some vet-approved water additives can help reduce plaque and freshen breath. Just add them to your pet’s water bowl!
- Diet Matters:
- Feeding high-quality dry kibble can help reduce plaque buildup compared to wet food. The Bark if You’re Dirty Healthy Pet Center team is dedicated to carrying and suggesting only the most nutritious food for your dog and cat babies. Visit our pet store in Phoenix, or stop by the Bark If You’re Dirty Scottdale location to see and learn about our brands including some unique offerings that only we provide including: Carna4, Zignature and Primal which have incredible ingredients and nutrients that help with pet dental health.
What Happens During a Professional Dental Checkup?
A trip to the vet or a professional veterinary dentist isn’t just about scraping plaque off teeth. Here’s what you can expect during a thorough dental exam:
- Full Oral Exam:
- The vet will check for signs of gingivitis, loose or broken teeth, oral tumors, and abscesses. They may also assess your pet’s breath (yes, bad breath can be a warning sign!).
- Dental X-Rays:
- Since much of dental disease happens below the gumline, X-rays help identify hidden problems like bone loss, root infections, or fractures.
- Scaling and Polishing:
- The vet will remove plaque and tartar using specialized tools and polish the teeth to prevent future buildup.
- Extraction (if needed):
- Severely damaged or infected teeth may need to be removed to prevent pain and further complications.
- Fluoride or Sealants:
- Some vets may apply protective treatments to help strengthen enamel and guard against plaque buildup.
The Takeaway
Just like you wouldn’t skip your own dental checkups, your pet needs the same attention. Establish a good at-home routine, invest in dental-friendly products, and make regular vet visits a priority. After all, a healthy smile leads to a happy pet!Ready to give your pet’s smile the care it deserves? Book their next dental exam today and let’s keep those tails wagging and purrs coming!
