Dental Care for Pets — Yes, It’s That Important

While we’re in the business of taking care of humans’ smiles, we have a soft spot for our furry loved ones. That’s why at our dental office in Clinton Township, we wanted to give our pets some love and talk about the importance of proper dental care for them, too.

Know the Signs of a Problem

Like humans, there are signs and symptoms of dental disease in felines and canines. Knowing the signs is the first step in ensuring your pet gets the attention he needs. Some signs of a dental concern can include:

• Bad breath
• Loose teeth
• Discolored teeth
• Excessive drooling
• Bleeding

If you notice any of these symptoms, call your vet as soon as possible.

Brush Their Teeth

It may sound silly, but brushing your pet’s teeth is just as important to keeping dental disease away as it is for humans. While it’s recommended they receive a professional, in-depth cleaning at the vet once a year, there are ways you can help keep their teeth clean in between visits. Using clean gauze wrapped around a finger and pet-friendly toothpaste (don’t use the human kind), gently scrub in small circles two or three times a week. This practice can go a long way in fighting tartar and plaque buildup.

Give Your Dog Chew Toys

Providing your pet things to chew on not only provides them hours of fun, it can also help keep their gums and teeth healthy. All dogs have a natural urge to chew on things, hence the tattered slippers that often go hand in hand with a new puppy. Chew toys help satisfy that desire and strengthen teeth in the process.

Now that you know how to care for your pet’s grin, make sure to keep yours in tip-top shape too. Regular visits to our Clinton Township dental office, along with a great at-home routine, are the best ways to ensure your smile is getting the love it needs. If it’s been awhile since you’ve seen a dentist, give us a call today!

Serving patients from Clinton Township, Sterling Heights, Roseville, and surrounding areas.

About The Author

Dr. Sophia Papasifakis Masters

Dr. Sophia Masters boasts 33 years of experience in the field of dentistry. Skilled in different dental procedures, she had advanced training in several prestigious dental institutions such as the Kois Center and The Dawson Center for Advanced Dentistry. She is a professional member of several dental organizations, including the American Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry. Additionally, she actively volunteers for Donated Dental Services, among others, and was an adjunct clinical faculty at Detroit Mercy Dental and the University of Michigan School of Dentistry.

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