The health of your dog's teeth and gums is not only a critical aspect of their oral health but their overall health and well-being as well. However, many pups don't actually get the dental care they need to stay as healthy as they should. Here, our Torrance vets walk you through 5 reasons why dental care is so important in dogs.
Your dog's overall health is closely connected to their oral health in a number of different ways, just like in people. Unfortunately, oral health conditions like gum disease, tooth loss and tooth decay are all relatively common in our furry friends.
The oral health issues that your dog experiences can have quite significant consequences for their long-term health, well-being and longevity. Here are 5 reasons why your dog's dental health care is so important to maintain.
Preventing Oral Pain
Oral health conditions like tooth decay, gum disease and others can be very painful for your pup when they reach their advanced stages.
This pain can impact every part of their lives (as you might know if you've ever experienced a toothache). It affects their behavior, demeanor and their ability to enjoy life.
Diligent dental care, both at home and professionally, is the key to preventing this unnecessary pain and suffering in your pup
Preventing Bad Breath or Unpleasant Odors
If smelling your dog's breath causes you to plug your nose, pull away, or apologize to anyone else in the room, it's a sign they could use some dental attention.
With a healthy oral cavity and consistently delivered at-home and professional dental care, bad breath won't be an issue for your dog. You'll also be able to get all the kisses you want without having to bear the smell.
Preventing Organ Damage
Even when oral health issues in your dog aren't obvious, or if you have already both identified and treated them, there are long-lasting and invisible consequences to their long-term health and well-being.
Bacteria in your pup's plaque can spread throughout their body via their bloodstream to infect their internal organs if their oral health issues are serious enough. Oral health issues have been shown to lead to a number of different diseases in dogs' internal organs.
Regularly scheduled dental checkups are your best bet, not only to keep your pet's oral health in good shape but to help prevent it from impacting their health in other ways as well.
Allows Your Dog To Eat Properly and Get Their Nutrition
When your pup suffers from oral health issues, they will often feel discomfort or pain in their mouth ranging from mild to severe.
When dogs feel unwell, they will often intentionally fast, and this instinct is only heightened when eating is painful for them.
If your dog is experiencing oral health issues, you may notice that they don't finish their food or, if they do, that they eat very slowly. They also won't be able to enjoy treats they love like bones, chews or even firmer toys. Your pup will be missing out on good nutrition and proper stimulation.
Diligent dental care and pet dental cleanings will help make sure your dog is able to enjoy their favorite foods and treats throughout their life.
Prevent Expensive Treatments Down The Road
There can actually be a benefit for your wallet in providing your pet with routine at-home and professional dental care and cleanings. Infections, diseases and other oral health issues can be quite expensive to manage and treat. And that's all on top of them causing your dog to feel unwell and uncomfortable.
Spending time easing your pup into brushing their teeth, purchasing them vet-recommended dental chews and bringing them in for professional vet dentist cleanings can all help significantly in preventing unexpected healthcare expenses down the road. They will also ensure that your dog remains happy, healthy and energetic throughout their life.