The Best Pet Dental Care in the Houston
You are a responsible pet owner and you take good care of your pet. But do you always remember to take care of your pet's teeth? Pets have dental diseases and problems just like people do. Regular dental check-ups at Hearthstone Animal Clinic, combined with good dental hygiene at home, can increase your pet's health, vitality and well-being, and help ensure your pet leads the best life possible.
If left untreated, dental disease can not only be painful and inhibit proper nutrition, but it can also lead to serious systemic issues that may threaten your pet's overall health before symptoms are noticeable. For those reasons, we consider dental care an important piece of your dog’s or cat's preventive health care plan.
Dental Care at Home
Dental care is not something that can be left to periodic visits with your veterinarian. Because plaque buildup—the primary cause of poor oral health—is a gradual process occurring throughout the life of your pet, it is important to practice good home dental care. As with humans, this means regular tooth brushing and in some cases additional steps may be necessary. Any member of the staff can show you the proper method for caring for your pet’s teeth as well as help you select the most effective dental products for your pet.
If you notice any of the following you may want to contact your veterinarian:
- Bad breath (one of the first signs of dental disease)
- Tartar or plaque buildup (ask your veterinarian how to identify these)
- A yellowish-brown crust of plaque on the teeth near the gum line
- Red and swollen gums
- Pain or bleeding when your pet eats or when the mouth or gums are touched
- Pawing at the mouth
- Decreased appetite or difficulty eating
- Loose or missing teeth