Aftercare Tips For Pet Dental Procedures
Dental care for pets is an essential element of their overall care, whether it’s preventative treatment or treatment for a certain issue that is causing problems. Proper dental care improves the quality of life for dogs and cats, keeps them from developing chronic health conditions that affect vital organs, and helps prevent damaging and painful periodontal disease.
With those benefits and more, there is no doubt that pet dental care should be prioritized by pet owners, especially when low-cost dental cleaning is available — like it is at Dr. Kelly’s Vet.
Pet owners who bring their dog or cat to a veterinarian for professional dental cleaning understand that affordability is a key issue. At Dr. Kelly’s, we keep dog and cat dental cleanings affordable because they are necessary and we believe that responsible pet ownership shouldn’t create a financial burden.
After all, budget-friendly pet dental care will likely make it easier for more pet owners to make sure their dogs and cats are receiving cleanings by a trained professional once a year, which is recommended. Those cleanings involve anesthesia for the dog or cat to ensure the pet’s comfort and safety, as well as the safety and ease of cleaning for the veterinarian conducting the cleaning.
Many times pet dental cleanings involve the removal of plaque and tartar from a dog or cat’s teeth, and after the procedure is complete, it makes sense that pet parents want to maintain the progress that was made. And, just as with in-office cleanings, there are budget-friendly ways to maintain healthy teeth and gums for cats and dogs at home.
The most important habit is brushing.
Pet owners are encouraged to buy a pet-friendly toothbrush that is designed just for a dog or cat’s mouth and temperament. Sometimes pet toothbrushes look very similar to the ones humans use, and sometimes they slide onto a pet owner’s finger or thumb. Either way, pet owners can choose which style works best for them and their dog or cat.
When it comes to toothpaste, pet owners need to pick up a pet-specific product. They’re usually flavored the way a dog or cat would prefer and contain enzymes that help with tooth and gum health. Toothpaste used by humans could be harmful to pets if it is swallowed, which is why pet toothpaste is available.
To get a dog or cat used to the idea of brushing, allow the animal to smell the toothpaste and even taste it — while it’s on the brush — before getting started. It’s important to allow the dog or cat to get comfortable with the idea of daily brushing, since they might not know what to expect. The most effective way to brush is to turn the dog or cat away from you and get as many teeth as you can. The process will likely become easier over time, especially if treats are involved after each brush to reinforce good behavior and remind the dog or cat that a reward awaits.
From there, pet owners are encouraged to maintain a once-yearly professional dental cleaning for their pets to keep periodontal disease at bay and maintain healthy teeth and gums all year long.
To learn more about dog and cat dental procedures at Dr. Kelly’s Vet, click this link.
Dr. Kelly’s Surgical Unit is a trusted veterinary team serving the Phoenix, Peoria, East Mesa and Tucson metro areas, with accessible locations in each market, offering highly specialized surgery, quality spay and neuter procedures, and accessible dental care for pets. Contact us to learn more about our specialized services or to schedule an appointment.
