All About Pet Dental Chews and Treats

pet dental needsMost of us love to give our pets treats on a regular basis. Who can resist those puppy dog eyes, not to mention our sweet cat purring in anticipation of a tasty treat? And, if giving them a dental treat is good for their teeth, even better. After all, it’s something they love and it’s healthy for them, right?

Well, it’s complicated. Many pet dental chews and treats are marketed to improve pets’ oral health, reduce plaque and tartar, and even take the place of regular cleanings and toothbrushings. But, good dental hygiene is more than just keeping your pet’s teeth shiny and white. Effective pet dental care preserves the quality of the teeth and gums and prevents periodontal disease, giving your pet a healthier and longer life.

The team at Beverly Hills Veterinary Associates decided to break down dental chews and treats, to find out if they are too good to be true.

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The Dangers of Dog Breath

Wagging tail, bright eyes, wet nose… and bad breath. If this accurately sums up your canine companion, you’re not alone. Stinky dog breath has become synonymous with man’s best friend, but the reality is that it’s not normal.

That rotten dog breath you’ve come to know (and not necessarily love) may actually be an indicator of underlying dental health problems. Taking a moment to learn about the causes and cures of doggy breath can make a huge impact on the overall health and wellness of your best pal.

What Causes Dog Breath?

The majority of pets over age 3 exhibit signs of periodontal disease, an infection of the gums and supportive structures of the tooth. Without treatment, a buildup of bacteria associated with the disease may eventually make its way into the bloodstream, where it can wreak havoc on the heart, liver, kidneys, and other vital organs.

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Pain In The Jaw? Not With Your Pet’s Dental Care Practices…

Brushing dogs teethImagine one day your pet ravenously devours his or her bowl of food, but the very next day he or she cannot even palate what’s on the menu. Sure, he or she could be tired of the same old offering, but it’s also entirely possible that your pet is suffering from the ill effects of poor dental health. Now you may start to wonder how long that bad breath has been around…Don’t worry, it’s not too late to get your pet’s dental care practices underway, and your team at Beverly Hills Veterinary Associates are here to help.

Understanding The Basics

Poor dental health (that is, neglecting the teeth and gums) can result in periodontal, or gum, disease. Plaque, caused by high bacteria levels in the mouth, and tartar, also known as calculus, attach to tooth surfaces. When the bacteria from plaque and tartar seep beneath the gums, supporting tissues can be irreversibly damaged, and can even lead to tooth loss. Continue…