How Often Do You Visit Your Dentist?
If you’re like many of us you probably visit your dentist for an annual check-up and clean. Keeping the tartar off your teeth helps prevent gum recession and gingivitis, and we no longer expect to have lost our teeth by middle age!
The same applies to your pet dog or cat. We now expect most of our pets to live well into their teens, with the result being we need to give them dental care if we want our pets to retain oral health.
The best thing for you or your pet is daily brushing. However, we do recognise that most people are not going to have the time or the ability to brush their pets’ teeth regularly. Instead there are various foods and chew toys available to reduce dental plaque and slow the build-up of tartar.
Just like humans, dogs and cats need to see their oral hygienist regularly. Each year at your pet’s annual health check the vet checks your pet’s teeth and gums. We discuss which oral health care strategies best suit your pet, and advise when a dental scale and polish is due.
Dentals typically cost around two or three hundred dollars, due to the general anaesthetic which is required. Some dogs and cats need their teeth scaling every year, but most will only need a dental every two to four years.
Looking after your pet’s oral health is good for their well-being, and essential in maintaining fresh breath. Your family will thank you for it!