Dental care and oral hygiene are important aspects of pet health care. Just like maintaining your own teeth, maintaining your animal’s oral health will keep it free of disease. Many dogs and cats develop oral complications and dental issues without dental cleanings and proper routine oral hygiene. Older animals are more susceptible to periodontal disease, but pets of any age will benefit from good dental care. At Westside Animal Hospital in Augusta, GA, we provide a variety of pet dental care services. Our veterinarian, Dr. Dustin C. Hawkins, is dedicated to keeping your pet healthy and happy. This includes routine dental care.

Signs of Poor Dental Health

There are some key signs that your pet may benefit from a dental checkup. Animals can suffer from dental issues that can affect their overall health. Routinely inspecting your animals’ teeth will help you catch problems early before they turn into major issues. Diet is also important. Keeping your pet on a specially formulated diet will reduce plaque and tartar build up. Some key signs of poor dental health to look for include:

• Bleeding or swollen gums
• Plaque and brownish or yellow build up on the teeth
• Bad breath that does not go away
• Decreased appetite

Pet Oral Care Benefits

Your pet will benefit from good oral healthcare. Since animals need their teeth for many things, it is important to not neglect issues such as loose teeth, bleeding gums, and bad breath. Regular annual checkups with our vet can help catch these issues early and prevent them from worsening. In addition to checkups, your pet needs routine teeth cleanings from our vet.

It is also important to brush your pet’s teeth at home with a pet toothbrush and toothpaste. Our veterinarian can guide you on how to do this. Your pet's teeth will stay healthy for years to come when you practice these simple steps. Healthy teeth ensure that your pet can chew food and engage in play activities, which will keep it in peak health. Just like for humans, proper oral hygiene is equally beneficial for your pets.

Visit Our Veterinarian in Augusta, GA for Pet Dental Care

Dental care is just as important as other aspects of dental care. At Westside Animal Hospital in Augusta, GA, we offer comprehensive dental care. Our veterinary team will also guide you on how to care for your pet’s teeth and mouth at home. Call us today to schedule an appointment.