Dog Dental Care - Why It's Important

Much like our own oral health, a healthy mouth is an essential element of your dog's overall health. Unfortunately, our four-legged friends often don't get the dental care they need to stay optimally healthy. Here, our Clemmons vets explain why dental care for dogs is so important.

Keeping Your Dog's Mouth Healthy

Studies have shown that our oral health is closely linked to our overall health, and the same holds true for our canine companions. Your dog's overall health is closely connected to their oral health in a variety of ways.

Unfortunately, pet parents often don't notice when their dog is suffering from painful oral health conditions such as periodontal disease, tooth decay or tooth loss, but these common conditions can have serious consequences for the long-term health and wellbeing of the pet.

Below are a few key reasons why dental care is so important for our pets. 

Dog Dental Issues Can Be Very Painful

Many of us have experienced toothaches and other painful dental issues. If you have a toothache the pain can impact every aspect of your life, and it's the same for your dog. Advanced periodontal disease, tooth decay and other conditions can be painful for your pup, and this pain can impact their behavior, demeanor and their ability to enjoy life. 

Diligent dental care, both professionally and at home, are essential for preventing your pup from experiencing unnecessary mouth pain.

Mouth Pain Can Prevent Dogs From Getting the Nutrition They Need

If your dog is suffering from oral health issues they may feel anything from mild discomfort to severe pain in their mouth.

When dogs feel unwell, they will often intentionally fast, and this instinct is only heightened when eating is painful for them. 

Signs that your pup is experiencing oral health issues include eating slowly or not finishing their food, and disinterest in treats, bones or chews. This could lead your dog to miss out on the nutrition they need to stay happy and healthy.

Diligent dental care and vet dental cleanings will help make sure your dog is able to enjoy their favorite foods and treats throughout their life.

Bad Breath Often Stems From Poor Dental Health

If smelling your dog's breath causes you to plug your nose, pull away, or apologize to anyone else in the room, it's a sign that they may be suffering from dental issues. 

With a healthy mouth and consistent dental care, bad breath won't be a problem for your pup and you can get all the kisses you want (without having to bear the smell).

Dental Plaque Is Linked to Organ Damage

Even when oral health issues aren't apparent in your pup, or if you have identified and treated them, there can be long-lasting and invisible consequences for their long-term health. 

If oral health issues reach advanced stages bacteria found in dental plaque is able to spread throughout the body via their bloodstream, potentially infecting their internal organs. Oral health issues have been shown to lead to a number of different diseases in dogs' internal organs.

Routine dental care is a key step in protecting your pet's dental health and overall health. 

Prevention is Better Than Treatment

Routine dental care, whether that be brushing your dog's teeth at home or bringing them in for professional cleanings, help your pocketbook too. Oral health issues, or infection and disease related to oral health issues, can be expensive to manage and treat on top of making your dog feel uncomfortable and unwell.

Taking the time to clean your dog's teeth regularly, buying them veterinarian-recommended dental chews and taking them to the vet for professional dental cleanings can help to prevent unexpected expenses down the road, and ensure your pooch stays healthy, happy and energetic throughout their life.

Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.

Is it time for your dog to have a professional dental cleaning and examination? Contact Animal Hospital of Clemmons today to book your pup's next dental appointment.