Pet Dental Care FAQ

Your pet’s oral health is an essential aspect of pet care. Regular pet dental care will not only protect your pet’s teeth, it will help improve his overall health. The below FAQs compiled by Oak Grove Veterinary Hospital in San Jose explain more about the importance of pet dental care.

Are Dental Problems Common In Dogs And Cats?

Yes. It’s estimated that approximately 70% of canines and felines over the age of five years old have developed periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is a common problem that can lead to tooth loss. If the disease enters the bloodstream of a pet, it can cause kidney, heart, and liver problems. Abscesses, tooth discoloration, and gum infections are other dental issues pets may develop over the years, which can be prevented through regular dental care.

What Are Some Signs of Dental Issues?

Swollen gums, bleeding, discolored teeth, excessive foul breath, and loss of appetite are some signs of dental problems in pets. Painful teeth may cause pets to reject dry foods, paw at their face or mouth more often than normal, or become irritated for no apparent reason due to mouth pain.

How Often Should I Schedule Dental Cleaning for My Pet? 

We recommend you bring your pet to our animal clinic annually for a dental exam. At that time, we will schedule a cleaning if needed. If your pet has had dental problems in the past or has a pre-existing condition that can weaken his oral health, he may need an annual or bi-annual cleaning to maintain healthy teeth and gums.

Is It Necessary to Anesthetize My Pet for Dental Care?

Anesthetizing your pet enables our San Jose veterinarians to clean your animal’s teeth beneath the gum line, where periodontal disease is more likely to start. Anesthesia won’t harm your pet. It will, however, protect him from pain and keep him still so we can perform a thorough job in cleaning his teeth at our animal facility.

See Our San Jose Vets for Quality Pet Dental Care

For quality dental care for your dog or cat, contact Oak Grove Veterinary Hospital in San Jose at 408-227-1661 today.