February is National Pet Dental Health Month
Regular dental care for your dog is important!
The American Veterinary Medical Association promotes dental health for your pets every year in February. Along with providing handouts on how to care for your dog's teeth, AVMA has a helpful video on how to brush your dog's teeth.
Regular brushing and care for your dog's teeth not only prevents periodontal disease but can also ward off other diseases that are associated with poor dental health. The bacteria in a dog's mouth from periodontitis can cause problems with the immune system and even lead to the failure or other organs. It can also be painful for the dog and create behavioral problems due to physical discomfort.
Dental disease is one of the most common health issue among dogs and cats. In fact, four out of five dogsthree years of age or older have some form of dental disease.The American Veterinary Dental College lists symptoms of concern:
- Excessive drooling
- Discomfort or refusal to let you look at teeth
- Poor appetite and weight loss
- Bad breath
- Bleeding gums or teeth
- Loose teeth
- Discolored teeth
If you see any of these signs in your dog, you can find a qualified veterinary dental specialist using the AVDC's directory of board certified veterinarians.