In celebration of the upcoming National Pet Dental Awareness Month in February, brush up on the best practices for keeping your pet’s mouth healthy and happy.

Did you know that over 80% of dogs and 70% of cats show signs of periodontal disease by the age of 3? These shocking numbers could be prevented with a consistent tooth-brushing regime. Just like us, your pet needs regular professional teeth cleanings to keep them healthy and prevent diseases. In addition to annual cleanings, it is important to keep up with regular teeth brushing to keep their mouth in good condition.

Daily oral care can prevent:

• Tooth decay
• Gingivitis
• Periodontal disease
• Halitosis (bad breath)
• Stomatitis
• Internal organ damage

While practicing daily oral hygiene, be on the lookout for the following signs that could indicate a more serious problem:

• Bad breath
• Broken or loose teeth
• Reduced appetite or refusal to eat
• Discolored teeth
• Red or swollen gums
• Dark red lines along gums
• Ulcers on gums or tongue
• Favoring one side of their mouth

Pet dental healthcare products including toothbrushes, toothpaste and tartar control treats are available at our clinic or our online store. For more information about your pet’s dental health or to schedule their annual dental exam, call our office at 701.757.3500.