Don’t delay, protect against decay!
All pets need regular dental hygiene, just like humans. Regular brushing, dental treats, chews and diets all help to prevent periodontal disease and tooth loss, but all too often our pets’ require regular hygiene through professional services at a reliable dental clinic in Victoria. We can help take care of your furry friends, from routine check-ups to advanced treatments.
Why is Dental Care Important for Pets?
Dental concerns stem from a variety of factors, like diet, genetics and chewing. Accumulation of plaque and tartar results in gingivitis, recession, periodontal ligament loosening, decay of teeth, and infections. Contagious bacteria from the mouth cause infection in the bloodstream and find their way to the heart, liver, and kidneys. Some of the signs that your pet has dental concerns include:
Bad (not merely "dog breath" but a pungent odor).
Reluctance to eat or chew on one side.
Gums that are puffy or bleed.
Loose or missing teeth.
Pawing at the mouth or excessive drooling
Not eating
Chronic cough
Regular visits to a dental clinic alert you on time, preventing disease and maintaining optimal health of your pet's gums and teeth.
How to Keep Your Pet's Teeth Clean at Home?
Regular home care is important to maintain your pet's oral health between vet visits. There are a few easy ways to keep your pet's teeth clean:
Brush Their Teeth – Use pet-safe toothpaste and a soft toothbrush. Start slowly and keep it a positive experience. Use your finger first on the gum line, followed by treats. Add flavored toothpaste, followed by treats again. Then finally introduce the toothbrush for short periods, always stopping for treats. The main teeth to brush are the top front, canine teeth and back top molars. It is not possible to brush lower teeth and inner teeth, not worth the stress to your pet. Your pet’s saliva and top arcade often provide a good environment to help the teeth you cannot get. If you brush 2-3 times per week this will contribute greatly. Most cats cannot tolerate teeth brushing and it is recommended to focus on diet and regular hygiene visit under sedation to prevent stress, and conflict with you.
Dental Chews & Toys – Treats and toys, clean the teeth while keeping your pet happy.
Healthy Diet – Royal Canin Dental dry, Hill’s t/d are all veterinary formulated diets that can prevent dentistry completely if started early in life. Dental treats like Veggie dents and CET enzymatic chew rawhide all help as well. They worse as an abrasive and enzymatically. Please contact our clinic for more information.
Water Additives & Dental Sprays – All this reduces plaque accumulation, leaving fresh breath. Dental sprays can be difficult to tolerate by pets, but additives can help plaque by 15 percent or more. Consult your vet for safe products.
Despite proper home care, professional cleaning at an animal care hospital in Victoria is essential for thorough cleaning and timely detection of problems once to multiple times in your pets’ lives, depending on the above hygiene at home. Our goal at Oak Bay Pet Clinic is that our patients undergo 2-3 dental procedures in their lifetimes, not more, if appropriate diets can be used. Diets affect teeth just like with people- the more sugar, colorants and flavors, the more build up of plaque and tartar.
What Happens During a Pet Dental Checkup?
In many ways, a visit to a veterinarian is not much different from that of a human dentist. At every check-up, veterinarians will examine the pet's teeth, gums, and mouth for signs of any disease. They will further review your pet's medical history and eating habits. They will discuss your pet's oral health highlighting any issues or concerns that need your attention. They might suggest professional cleaning on a regular basis.
Common Pet Dental Problems & Treatments
Plaque & Tartar Buildup – Causes gum disease and bad breath
Treatment: Professional cleaning.
Gum Disease (Gingivitis & Periodontitis) – Causes swollen, painful gums.
Treatment: Cleaning & antibiotics.
Broken or Worn Teeth –Most frequently found in active dogs and chewers.
Therapy: Tooth elimination or repair.
Tooth Infections & Abscesses – Extremely painful and can result in serious illness. Treatment: Extraction & medication.
An animal care veterinary hospital can diagnose and treat every dental problem, which will make your pet healthy and comfortable.
How Often Should Your Pet Visit a Veterinarian for dental exams?
Annual dental checkups are suggested by veterinarians for most animals. Some breeds, however, such as small dogs and flat-faced cats, are more likely to develop dental problems earlier and may need to be checked every six months.
If you see any symptoms of dental discomfort or pain, go see your vet immediately. Services at Oak Bay Pet Clinic include:
Specialized cleaning of tartar and plaque.
Extractions of teeth that are diseased or infected.
Treatment for periodontal disease and infections.
Preventive services for an ongoing healthy mouth for pets.
An excellent veterinary hospital ensures that your pets get all the care and attention that they need, improving their life expectancy and quality.
Conclusion: Keep Your Pet’s Smile Healthy with Oak Bay Pet Clinic
Good oral health equals a healthier, happier pet. Regular visits to a dental clinic in Victoria, along with home care, can avoid severe problems and keep your pet's teeth in good shape.
At Oak Bay Pet Clinic, we do everything from regular cleanings to complex procedures.
Schedule an appointment today and provide your pet with the healthy smile they deserve!
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