Brushing your teeth: what problems arise if you don't brush your dog's or cat's teeth?

Brushing your teeth is important for pets because it helps keep them healthy. If you don't brush your dog's or cat's teeth, soft plaque will accumulate on the enamel. Over time, it will harden and turn into tartar.

You will need sanitation and professional oral care. In its absence, plaque in combination with multiplying pathogenic microflora can provoke a number of dental ailments:

• Gingivitis.
• Caries.
• Stomatitis.
• Pulpitis.
• Periodontitis.
• Abscesses.

When these pathologies become chronic, the whole body can be affected. Immunity and cardiovascular functioning deteriorate. The animal shows signs of disorders such as:

• Bleeding gums.
• Unpleasant odor from the mouth.
• Poor appetite or refusal to eat due to painful sensations when the teeth are loaded.
• Increased salivation.

That is, if you are wondering whether to brush your dog's or cat's teeth, the answer from Animal Clinic is "Yes, definitely!". Routine brushing should be done at least every other day with a toothbrush and toothpaste purchased at a pet store that can be swallowed.

Special toys and treats can also help clean teeth. Every six months, dogs and cats need professional dental cleaning. At our veterinary clinic branches, this procedure is performed by a veterinarian using an ultrasonic scaler.