Frequently Asked Questions about Pet Dental Care

Puppy and kitten care goes beyond the necessities of food, water, exercise, and veterinarian visits. You will also need to ensure their dental health is regularly addressed. Routine dental visits are essential to ensuring your pet's overall health and well-being. Neglecting this part of your pet’s health care can lead to dental diseases that have far-reaching consequences. Thankfully, St. Francis Hospital for Animals in Oakdale, NY, offers comprehensive pet dental treatments to ensure your pets are well cared for. 

What is pet dental disease?

Pet dental disease encompasses many conditions affecting the teeth, roots, gums, and the underlying structures in your pet's mouth. The most common condition that can impact your pet is periodontal disease, which occurs when tartar and plaque buildup beneath your pet’s gumline. This can lead to gum inflammation, bone loss, and other health issues.

Should my pet have regular dental cleanings?

Regular dental cleaning is a vital part of puppy and kitten care. Pets can develop dental issues like gum disease, plaque buildup, and tooth decay. These issues are painful and uncomfortable and lead to serious and life-threatening problems. Routine dental cleanings not only remove tartar and plaque, but also allow our veterinarian to identify and address potential dental issues.

Can a pet dental cleaning treat bad breath?

Having your pet’s teeth professionally cleaned is a great way to keep your breath fresh, but it won’t fix the root problem. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have a veterinarian near you perform dental cleaning on your pet. Dental cleaning does more than freshen breath. It can reduce plaque and tartar buildup, which can be responsible for unpleasant odors.

Is home tooth brushing beneficial for my pets?

At-home oral hygiene treatments, such as tooth brushing with pet-friendly toothpaste, can help maintain your pet’s oral health. It can help prevent plaque formation on your pet’s teeth while freshening breath. However, tooth brushing is no substitute for regular visits to a veterinarian near me, and you should still maintain routine vet visits for your pet.

Explore Pet Dental Care at St. Francis Hospital for Animals

To learn more about your pet’s dental care and how to protect them from problems caused by poor dental health, contact St. Francis Hospital for Animals in Oakdale, NY. We are happy to answer your questions and set up an appointment for your pet with one of our experienced veterinarians. Call us at (631) 567-1359 to schedule an appointment.