Dental health for four-legged friends – a life without pain
Did you know that your four-legged friends are just as dependent on healthy oral flora as we humans are on healthy oral flora? Unfortunately, dental problems in animals often go unnoticed for a long time – and can then lead to considerable pain and serious inflammation.
Look into your pet’s mouth regularly
Make it a habit to examine your pet’s gums and teeth regularly. This is the only way to detect changes in good time before they become a serious problem.
Small dog breeds are particularly at risk: 42 teeth in a small space often means that the teeth are so crowded that natural self-cleaning can hardly take place. This problem is often even more extreme in short-nosed breeds – the teeth are twisted in the jaw due to the lack of space.
Cats are also prone to often undetected dental diseases at an early stage.
How to recognize that your pet needs help
Watch out for the following warning signs that may indicate dental problems:
- A sudden change or particularly intense odor from the mouth can be the first sign of dental problems.
- Yellow or brownish plaque can lead to gum inflammation and infections if left untreated.
- Reddened or swollen gums, bleeding gums – especially when brushing your teeth – can indicate the onset of inflammation.
- Animals with dental problems tend to avoid hard food, chew hesitantly or eat differently than usual.
- More salivation than usual can be an indication of pain in the mouth.
- Animals that try to relieve discomfort themselves often rub their mouths against objects.
Important to know: Many animals continue to eat despite severe pain in the mouth – even with loose or broken teeth. They express pain late and often in ways that are difficult for pet owners to recognize. This is precisely why we recommend an annual professional dental examination – for example as part of the annual vaccination or health check – to ensure your pet’s long-term dental health.
Brush your teeth: Little effort, great effect
Regular tooth brushing is the most effective measure you can take for your pet’s oral health. Ideally, you should brush daily – that way it becomes routine. Brushing prevents plaque and tartar build-up and thus protects against inflammation of the oral mucosa.
There are suitable toothbrush shapes for every animal. Animal toothpaste is not only formulated with four-legged friends in mind, but also comes in flavors that animals like. We will be happy to advise you.
Step by step to successful tooth brushing
It is best to start the habituation process when your pet is young. Proceed cautiously and without pressure:
Start by gently touching your pet’s mouth, teeth and gums with your finger. Once your pet is familiar with this, it is best to start with a finger toothbrush. Dip it in something your pet likes – for cats, for example, the juice from a can of tuna. Insert the brush under the side of the lip and make circular movements around the canines and molars. Incisors and inner surfaces may be skipped at first.
Once you have refined your technique, you can switch to a toothbrush with pet paste. End each toothbrushing session with play, petting and a treat – this way your pet will associate the routine with something positive and, in the best case, will soon even look forward to it.
Further support for healthy teeth
In addition to brushing teeth, there are special types of food that help to reduce plaque. Chewing articles, chew toys and dental care supplements can also support oral hygiene – please contact us for suitable recommendations.
As many pet owners are unaware of the importance of dental health, we routinely carry out a dental check during the annual vaccination or health check in order to detect problems as early as possible.
When was your pet’s last dental check-up? Make an appointment now.
We are here for you!