As loving pet owners, we do everything we can to keep our furry companions happy and healthy—providing nutritious food, regular exercise, and routine vet visits. However, one crucial aspect of their health often gets overlooked: dental care. Just like humans, pets need consistent oral hygiene to maintain overall well-being.

February is Pet Dental Health Month, making it the perfect time to discuss why dental care is essential and how you can ensure your pet’s mouth stays in top shape!

Why Dental Health Matters

Dental disease is one of the most common health issues seen in both cats and dogs. Studies show that by age three, 80% of dogs and 70% of cats have some form of periodontal disease. Left untreated, dental disease can cause pain, tooth loss, and even lead to serious health complications.

How Dental Disease Develops

  • Bacteria in your pet’s mouth form a sticky plaque that clings to their teeth.
  • If not removed, plaque hardens into tartar, which accumulates under the gumline.
  • This leads to gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) and, over time, periodontal disease, which can destroy the structures supporting the teeth.

The Dangers of Poor Dental Hygiene

Ignoring your pet’s oral health can lead to:
✔ Chronic pain – Infected gums and decayed teeth can cause significant discomfort.
✔ Tooth loss – Severe periodontal disease can weaken and loosen teeth.
✔ Bad breath – Foul-smelling breath is often a sign of bacteria buildup.
✔ Infections in other organs – Bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and impact the heart, kidneys, and liver.

The good news? Dental disease is largely preventable!

How to Recognize Dental Problems in Your Pet

Because pets can’t tell us when they’re in pain, it’s important to look for subtle signs that something might be wrong. Some common symptoms of dental disease include:

  • Bad breath (a “fishy” or “rotten” smell)
  • Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
  • Yellow or brown tartar buildup on teeth
  • Difficulty chewing, dropping food, or eating only on one side
  • Excessive drooling
  • Pawing at the mouth or rubbing their face on furniture
  • Loose, broken, or missing teeth

If your pet exhibits any of these signs, it’s time to schedule a dental check-up with your veterinarian.

How to Keep Your Pet’s Teeth Healthy

Preventing dental disease is much easier than treating advanced oral infections. Here’s how you can take proactive steps to maintain your pet’s dental health:

1. Schedule Regular Veterinary Dental Exams

At Newport Veterinary Hospital, we recommend annual dental check-ups and cleanings for most pets. During a dental exam, our veterinarians will:

  • Inspect your pet’s teeth and gums for signs of disease
  • Take dental X-rays to check for hidden issues
  • Perform a professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup
  • Address any necessary extractions or treatments

Professional cleanings under anesthesia are the gold standard for maintaining your pet’s oral health. They allow for a thorough examination and cleaning beneath the gumline—something that isn’t possible with at-home care alone.

2. Brush Your Pet’s Teeth at Home

Brushing your pet’s teeth daily is the best way to prevent plaque buildup. While this may sound daunting, with patience and practice, most pets can learn to tolerate (and even enjoy) toothbrushing!

Tips for Successful Toothbrushing:
🦷 Start slow and make it a positive experience. Use treats and praise to build trust.
🦷 Use pet-specific toothpaste (never human toothpaste—it contains xylitol, which is toxic to pets).
🦷 Choose a soft-bristled toothbrush or a finger brush designed for pets.
🦷 Focus on brushing along the gumline, where plaque builds up most.
🦷 If brushing isn’t possible, consider dental wipes or water additives to help reduce bacteria.

3. Offer Dental-Friendly Chews and Toys

Certain treats, chews, and toys are specially designed to help clean teeth while your pet chews. Look for products with the VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council) seal, which means they’ve been proven to reduce plaque and tartar.

✅ Good Options:

🚫 Avoid:

  • Hard bones or antlers (can cause tooth fractures)
  • Cooked bones (can splinter and cause internal damage)

4. Consider Water Additives and Dental Rinses

If your pet isn’t a fan of brushing, water additives and oral rinses can help reduce bacteria in their mouth. While these aren’t a substitute for brushing, they’re a great additional layer of protection against plaque buildup.

What to Expect During a Professional Dental Cleaning

A veterinary dental cleaning is a safe, thorough procedure performed under anesthesia. Here’s what happens during your pet’s dental visit at Newport Veterinary Hospital:

🔎 Pre-Anesthetic Exam: We assess your pet’s overall health and may perform bloodwork.
😴 Anesthesia: Your pet is placed under anesthesia to ensure a stress-free, painless experience.
🦷 Full Mouth X-Rays: This helps us detect issues beneath the gumline that aren’t visible to the naked eye.
🪥 Scaling & Polishing: We remove tartar and plaque buildup, then polish the teeth to prevent future buildup.
👀 Examination & Extractions (if needed): If we find any infected or damaged teeth, we’ll discuss treatment options.

Regular dental cleanings not only improve your pet’s breath but also extend their lifespan by preventing painful infections and systemic health issues.

Book Your Pet’s Dental Exam Today!

At Newport Veterinary Hospital, we are passionate about keeping pets happy and healthy. Our experienced veterinary team is here to provide the best dental care possible—whether your pet needs a routine cleaning or treatment for advanced dental disease.

🦷 Take advantage of Pet Dental Health Month and schedule your pet’s dental exam today! Call us at 541-265-7448 or book online to give your pet the gift of a healthy smile.

🐶🐱 Because a healthy mouth means a happier pet!