The statistics are alarming. An astounding 85 percent of household pets show signs of periodontal disease by the time they reach three years of age. If left untreated, this disease can cause your pet’s teeth to fall out, making it very difficult for him to eat a healthy diet. Dental problems can also cause issues that aren’t as obvious as missing teeth, some of which can be life-threatening. Here are several reasons why your pet’s dental health matters more than you think.
Temperament Changes
Cavities, cracked teeth and other dental issues hurt animals just as they do humans. Unfortunately, animals in pain often experience temperament changes, sometimes unexpectedly lashing out and biting. Even if your beloved family pet has never shown any aggression before, her attitude may change if she’s in pain.
Bacteria Travels
Dental plaque and tartar both contain bacteria. If not periodically removed at a pet dental clinic around Bucktown, tartar works its way below the gums. Once inside the gums, the bacteria in the tartar starts to erode the jawbone, causing loose teeth that will eventually fall out. Bacteria below the gum line can also find its way into the bloodstream, where it can travel to any part of the body. If it does, it may damage the heart, kidneys and liver.
Clearing the Air
Puppy kisses should make you smile, not wrinkle your nose. Tooth decay and dental problems cause bad breath and can make snuggling with your pet quite unpleasant. Even though your fur baby doesn’t brush his teeth every day, mouth odor is not a normal condition. It’s a sign that something is wrong and needs to be treated as such. If your pet has bad breath, you’ll both be happier after a visiting a pet dental clinic around Bucktown.
Dental cleanings and care are routine parts of animal care, but dental work does require putting animals under anesthesia. The professionals at Village West Veterinary have the training and experience to safely perform dental cleanings and oral surgeries to give your pet a healthy smile. You can learn more about who we are and what we do at www.villagewestvet.com. Follow us on twitter.