Why Dental Hygiene is Important For Pets

You want to take care of every aspect of your pet's health, and that means making sure that their teeth will last them a lifetime. At Carolina Crossing Veterinary Clinic in Benson, we understand how important it is to prioritize your pet's dental health, and we're here to provide you with the education and services that you need to keep your cat or dog's mouth healthy.

Cat and Dog Dental Hygiene at Home

We get it—brushing your cat or dog's teeth can feel like an impossible task, but it doesn't have to be that way! Starting slowly and allowing your pet to get comfortable with the brushing process can help you support your dog or cat dental hygiene at home.

Get started by touching your pet's mouth. If they tolerate that well, you can have them try a bit of their toothpaste (only use toothpaste specifically made for pets, as human toothpaste can make them sick). If they're interested, start by brushing a single tooth, adding an additional tooth to your brushing session each day. Some pets are fine with the brushing process, while others take a few days (or even weeks) to even get used to you touching their mouth. Use your pet's comfort as your guide, and don't hesitate to reach out to us if you need some help troubleshooting.

Cat and Dog Teeth Cleaning

After your pet turns two, you'll want to bring them in for a dental cleaning at least once each year. We'll talk with you about whether it makes sense for your pet to be safely sedated while they're getting their teeth cleaned. In addition to creating a clean and healthy environment in their mouths, regular dog and cat teeth cleaning also allow us to spot any dental issues that require treatment before they become larger problems.

Signs of a Cat or Dog Dental Problem

If your dog or cat has exceptionally bad breath, has discolored teeth, has loose teeth, or is showing signs of an infection or abscess (including red or raw areas on the gums), it's important to bring them in for an appointment right away.

Carolina Crossing Veterinary Clinic: Your Veterinarian Near You

At Carolina Crossing Veterinary Clinic in Benson, NC, our animal clinic is here to meet all of your pet's needs, including cat and dog dental care procedures. We'd love to get to know your family and help your pet live a happy, healthy life. Reach out to our team today to learn more about our practice and schedule your pet's first appointment.