Like humans, pets can suffer from dental diseases caused by plaque and tartar buildup. Without proper dental care, pets can suffer from dental disease, which is quite common in dogs over the age of three. More than 80 percent of dogs over the age of three have some form of dental disease, also referred to as periodontal disease. Periodontal disease in pets can have severe consequences, including affecting your pet’s overall health and wellness. At Sand Creek Animal Hospital in Albany, NY, we can provide your pet with routine dental care and cleanings.
What is pet dental disease?
Excessive plaque buildup on the teeth, affecting the gums, teeth, and structures supporting the mouth can lead to dental disease. When the plaque hardens, it becomes tartar, which can extend below the pet’s gumline. Once the plaque hardens, a professional pet dental cleaning is necessary to remove the tartar. Pet dental disease can cause problems for your pet’s mouth healthy and can cause bacteria to spread through the bloodstream, leading to several conditions, including kidney disease.
What are the signs of pet dental disease?
Because they can’t speak to us, dogs have trouble telling us what is wrong with them. However, knowing the common signs of dental disease can help ensure your pet gets prompt treatment from your veterinarian. Common symptoms of pet dental disease include broken teeth, loose teeth, bad breath, pain, bleeding gums, and drooling. In addition, some pets may have trouble eating or drinking and refuse to eat together.
Why is pet dental care necessary?
Proper pet dental care can help prevent tooth loss and halitosis. Additionally, taking your pet to the veterinarian for routine dental care checkups helps prevent oral pain and organ damage caused by bacteria entering the bloodstream and affecting the kidneys and heart. Finally, regular dental checkups at a veterinary clinic can help prevent any existing dental disease from worsening and causing health-related complications.
Pet Dental Care in Albany, NY
If your pet has never had a pet dental cleaning, or it has been a while since their last one, it might be time to schedule one. The veterinarians at Sand Creek Animal Hospital in Albany, NY, understand the importance of pet dental care and can help take care of all of your pet’s healthcare needs. Call us today at (518) 446-9171 for more information or to schedule an appointment with our veterinarian.