Silverhill Animal Clinic

Signs Your Pet May Need Dental Care

• Bad breath
• Red or swollen gums
• Yellow or brown buildup on the teeth
• Trouble eating or dropping food
• Pawing at the mouth

Why It Matters

Dental disease is one of the most common health problems in dogs and cats, and it affects much more than just the mouth. We recommend dental cleanings at least once a year.

• Pain and eating problems: Infected gums, loose teeth, and broken teeth are painful. Pets often hide pain, so instead you may notice them chewing on one side, dropping food, eating more slowly, or losing interest in hard food and treats. Over time, this can lead to weight loss and poor nutrition.
• Infection that spreads: Plaque and tartar are full of bacteria. As gum disease gets worse, the gums become inflamed and bleed easily, letting bacteria enter the bloodstream. From there, bacteria can travel to vital organs, including the heart, kidneys, and liver, where they can cause inflammation and damage.
• Tooth loss and abscesses: Untreated disease breaks down the tissue and bone that hold teeth in place, leading to painful abscesses and teeth that must be removed.

A yearly dental exam and cleaning removes the buildup that causes these problems and lets us catch issues early, keeping your pet comfortable and healthier for longer.