How we protect your pet’s smile and overall health with routine dental care
“Doggie breath” is more than unpleasant; it can be a sign of a serious health concern. The underlying disease causing these symptoms, such as pain, does not only impact your pet’s oral health. Poor dental hygiene can also affect the overall health of your pet’s body, including organs and systems that may seem unrelated to the teeth and gums. Fortunately, the team at Upper Village Veterinary Hospital in Toronto, Ontario, offers comprehensive dental services to help prevent problems with your furry friend’s teeth and gums.
Why is dental care so important for my pet?
Think of the last time one of your teeth hurt. It wasn’t pleasant, right? Toothaches and other oral/mouth problems are also unpleasant for your dog or cat. We know you want what’s best for your pet. We prioritize your pet’s quality of life and ensure their chewing comfort and function through proper dental care. When pets struggle to eat and drink comfortably, their nutrition and hydration can be negatively impacted, leading to serious health issues that may require expensive emergency care. Additionally, oral problems can have widespread effects on the entire body.
How are teeth and gums related to the rest of the body?
Besides the previously mentioned effects, there are direct implications related to bacteria and inflammation in the mouth. For example, the bacteria associated with your pet’s periodontal or gum disease can easily enter the bloodstream when they chew. Once in the bloodstream, harmful germs may travel to the heart valves and impact other organs with high blood flow, including the lungs, kidneys, and liver. Researchers have observed microscopic changes in the heart, liver, and kidney tissues in dogs with periodontal infections. Therefore, by keeping your companion’s teeth free of tartar and maintaining fresh breath, you promote a long, healthy, and happy life for them by reducing the risk of systemic infections and organ damage.
Are certain dogs at risk?
Small breed and toy dogs are often at risk for dental issues due to their small mouths, which may not provide enough space for their teeth to grow properly. This can lead to excessive tartar buildup. Additionally, these pets may face anatomical challenges, such as jaw-related deformities, that make them more vulnerable to oral diseases. Factors like chewing habits, diet, and overall health status—such as diabetes or hypothyroidism—can also influence the likelihood of developing tooth and gum problems.
It’s important to remember that all dogs can experience oral issues. Without regular wellness visits, you might not discover your pet has a problem until significant damage has occurred. Pets are notoriously stoic and may not “show” their pain until it has become so unbearable that they alter how they drink and eat, which can be quite noticeable. You may, for instance, notice their saliva is bloody. They may have ropey, thick drool. You might notice that they paw at the sides of their face more than usual. Dogs and cats can’t tell us with words that they are in pain. So, these are some of the ways they display it.
How do you keep my pet’s teeth and gums healthy?
We can easily incorporate an oral exam and cleaning into your pet’s regular wellness visit. We use a gentle yet skilled hand and special instruments to remove lingering food debris, sticky bacterial plaque, and hardened plaque (tartar or calculus). These substances can be challenging, if not impossible, to remove with the standard oral care products we may provide or recommend for use at home. Just like your teeth receive a thorough polishing during each checkup, we do the same for your dog’s mouth to keep their breath fresh and clean.
Your pet will be completely relaxed and safe throughout the process, as anesthesia is a standard part of the procedure. This dental treatment does not cause unnecessary discomfort; rather, it is designed to relieve existing discomfort and prevent issues that could lead to pain, swelling, and other unpleasant symptoms. Each visit includes recommendations for oral care products, tooth-friendly treats and toys, appropriate diet, and home cleaning techniques.
Can I afford this service?
These and other preventive services are part of our money-saving in-house wellness plans. For a convenient and affordable monthly fee, all of the procedures and guidance necessary to keep your dog or cat healthy are covered—no strings attached! You also avoid the trauma and expense associated with the many serious health consequences of untreated dental problems. Schedule your visit at Upper Village Veterinary Hospital today. Call our team in Toronto, ON, on (647) 560-9276.
