Keeping Your Pet’s Smile Healthy: Expert Dental Care Advice from Dr Annemarie de Wet
Dental Care is a vital component of your pet’s overall well-being, but it is often overlooked. Dr Annemarie de Wet, a leading veterinary expert, highlights the importance of regular dental care in pets and offers practical advice to help owners maintain their pets’ oral health.
Why Dental Care Matters
Dr Annemarie de Wet emphasises, “By the age of three, most dogs and cats show signs of dental disease.” This is concerning because untreated dental issues can lead to serious health complications, including:
- Heart disease – Bacteria from oral infections can travel through the bloodstream and cause damage to the heart.
- Kidney disease – Bacteria can also spread to the kidneys, potentially leading to chronic kidney conditions.
- Jaw fractures – Particularly common in small dog breeds like Chihuahuas, dental disease can weaken the jawbone.
- Pain and Behavioural Changes – Dental pain can lead to behavioural issues, including aggression and irritability.
- Weight Loss – Pets in pain may refuse to eat, which can result in weight loss and malnutrition.
Early Warning Signs of Dental Problems
Most pet owners notice dental issues when they smell their pet’s bad breath. However, Dr de Wet stresses the importance of addressing dental health before it becomes severe. Common signs of dental disease include:
- Bad breath
- Difficulty eating or taking longer to finish meals
- Drooling
- Avoiding toys or play
- Pawing at the mouth
- Red or swollen gums
To help prevent these problems, Dr de Wet recommends a yearly health check that includes a dental exam. At EberVet Country Animal Clinic and EberVet Pet Clinic , we offer free dental checks to assess your pet’s oral health and determine whether scaling, polishing, or extractions are necessary.
Home Dental Care for Pets
Dr de Wet explains, “Daily brushing is the best way to keep your pet’s teeth healthy.” Use a pet-specific toothbrush or a soft human toothbrush, along with pet toothpaste like Kyron Pet Dent. If brushing isn’t an option, Kyron Pet Dent Oral Gel is a great alternative, as it works enzymatically to reduce plaque and tartar.
She also recommends these dental care products and tips:
- Dental treats such as Veggie Dent, Montego Bags o Wags, and Whimzees Daily Dental Treats.
- Feeding your pet dry kibble, which encourages chewing and reduces plaque build-up.
- Avoiding hard treats like cooked bones and hooves, as these can cause tooth fractures, particularly in aggressive chewers.
A Real-Life Story: Why Regular Dental Checks Matter
To highlight the importance of dental checks, Dr de Wet shares a story about her dog, Daisy. “In March 2022, I noticed a small, hard growth on Daisy’s gum, just above a molar,” she recalls. A biopsy revealed suspected osteosarcoma, a type of cancer. Because of the early detection during a routine dental check, Daisy’s affected teeth and part of her jaw were removed before the cancer spread. Today, Daisy is healthy and thriving, but this case serves as a reminder of how essential regular dental care is.
Debunking the Myth: “My Pet is Too Old for Anaesthesia”
A common concern Dr de Wet hears is that older pets are too old for anaesthesia during dental procedures. “This is a myth,” she explains. While there are risks, pre-anaesthetic blood tests and careful monitoring can minimise them. Supportive care, such as IV fluids, can further reduce the risk. At EberVet Country Animal Clinic and EberVet Pet Clinic, our team monitors your pet closely to ensure their safety throughout the procedure.
Book Your Free Dental Check Today
Dr Annemarie de Wet underscores the importance of dental care for pets. If you have concerns about your pet’s oral health, book a free dental check at EberVet Country Animal Clinic or EberVet Pet Clinic. Regular care and early intervention can help your pet live a longer, healthier, and happier life.
Healthy teeth mean a healthier pet!
