Dental Care for Pets

Why Your Pet Needs a Dental Check-Up 🦷

Just like humans, pets need regular dental care to stay healthy. Unfortunately, dental disease is one of the most common medical conditions affecting dogs and cats today. By the time they’re three years old, most pets already have some form of dental disease. Left untreated, it can lead to pain, tooth loss, and even serious health issues affecting the heart, kidneys, and liver.

At Pet-First Pet Hospital, we believe that a healthy smile is key to a happy life. Our comprehensive dental services are designed to prevent, diagnose, and treat dental problems in your beloved pet.

Spot the Signs: How to Know if Your Pet Has Dental Pain

Pets are masters at hiding pain, so it’s important to know what to look for. If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to schedule a dental check-up with us:

Bad Breath: This is often the first and most obvious sign of dental disease.
Yellow or Brown Teeth: A buildup of tartar is a clear indicator of a problem.
Red or Swollen Gums: This can be a sign of gingivitis, which is the first stage of periodontal disease.
Difficulty Eating: Your pet may show a preference for soft food, drop food from their mouth, or chew on one side.
Pawing at the Face: This is a common sign of mouth pain.
Lethargy or Irritability: Dental pain can make a pet feel unwell, leading to a change in behavior.

Our Dental Care Services

At Pet-First Pet Hospital, we offer a full range of dental services to keep your pet’s teeth in top shape.

Comprehensive Oral Health Assessment: During your pet’s regular wellness exam, we perform a thorough oral exam to check for any early signs of disease.
Professional Dental Cleaning: We use general anesthesia for a complete cleaning, which allows us to safely and painlessly remove plaque and tartar both above and below the gumline. We also take dental X-rays to check for problems not visible to the naked eye.
Preventive Care: We can help you create an at-home dental care plan, which may include regular brushing, dental chews, or a special diet.

Tips for At-Home Dental Care

Brush Regularly: The single most effective thing you can do at home is to brush your pet’s teeth daily. Use a pet-specific toothbrush and toothpaste—never use human toothpaste, as it contains ingredients that can be toxic to pets.

Start Early: The younger your pet is, the easier it will be to get them used to having their teeth brushed.
Reward Good Behavior: Make dental care a positive experience with praise and treats.
Don’t wait until your pet is in pain. Proactive dental care is the best way to ensure they live a long, happy, and healthy life.