13 Sep What Happens If You Never Brush Your Pet’s Teeth?
As pet owners, we do our best to provide our companions with the best care possible. We make sure they get the right food, plenty of exercise, and regular checkups at the vet. But one aspect of pet care that’s often overlooked is dental health. Many pet owners don’t realize that brushing their pet’s teeth is just as important as taking care of their own. So, what happens if you never brush your pet’s teeth? Let’s explore the potential consequences.
Plaque and Tartar Build-Up
Without regular brushing, plaque quickly forms on your pet’s teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that can harden into tartar within just a few days. Once tartar forms, it becomes much harder to remove and typically requires professional cleaning under anesthesia. While plaque is soft and can be brushed away, tartar is calcified and can trap even more bacteria, worsening oral health. The build-up of plaque and tartar can lead to a host of problems, including bad breath, discolored teeth, gum irritation, and more.
Periodontal Disease
Without brushing or regular dental cleanings, plaque and tartar continue to accumulate, irritating the gums and causing gingivitis—the first stage of periodontal disease. If addressed, gingivitis can be reversed, but if left untreated, it can progress to advanced periodontal disease.
Periodontal disease can cause:
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Oral pain
- Loose or missing teeth
- Infections in the mouth
Tooth Loss
As periodontal disease progresses, the supporting structures around your pet’s teeth, including the gums, ligaments, and bones, begin to deteriorate. This can result in tooth loss, which may make it difficult for your pet to eat and also cause significant discomfort. Your pet may show signs of pain, such as drooling, pawing at the face, difficulty eating, and a decreased appetite.
Increased Risk of Systemic Health Issues
Oral health isn’t just about the mouth. If left unchecked, the bacteria that cause dental disease can enter the bloodstream and spread to other parts of the body. This can contribute to systemic health problems such as heart disease.
Veterinary Care
The longer dental disease goes untreated, the more complex and costly the care becomes. What could have been prevented with regular brushing and professional cleanings can escalate into the need for multiple tooth extractions, advanced surgery, and treatment for infections.
How to Protect Your Pet’s Oral Health
The best way to prevent dental disease is through regular brushing, professional cleanings, and dental-friendly treats or toys. Here are some tips:
- Start brushing early: The earlier you start brushing your pet’s teeth, the easier it will be to make it a routine. Always make sure you are using pet safe toothpaste and products!
- Regular vet check-ups: Your vet can help identify any early signs of dental disease during an exam and recommend professional cleanings as needed.
- Offer dental chews: Dental chews can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup between brushings. Check the Veterinary Oral Health Council website for products that have been tested and shown to be effective.
Schedule a Veterinary Dental Checkup in Milwaukee
Give your pet the best chance at a healthy, happy life by prioritizing their dental health. Don’t wait until it’s too late—start brushing your pet’s teeth today and schedule a dental checkup with a board-certified veterinary dentist. Contact Veterinary Dental Specialists of Wisconsin today to make an appointment for your dog or cat.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (9/13/2024). Photo by R.D. Smith on Unsplash