Pet Dentistry: How to Keep Your Pet’s Teeth Healthy and Strong

Want to see your pet smiling and happy for years to come? Regular dental care is not a luxury but a necessity for every loving owner! Unlike us, pets can’t tell us when something hurts, so maintaining their oral health is your responsibility. And the key to success is a comprehensive approach: prevention, proper cleaning, and timely visits to the veterinarian.

Did you know that your pets start losing their baby teeth as early as 3.5 months old? This is when the growth of permanent teeth begins, and these will stay with your pet for life. For large breeds, this process finishes by 6 months, while for smaller breeds, it might take up to 8–10 months. How can you help your furry friend? It’s simple: keep an eye on how the teeth are changing.

Some owners make the mistake of ignoring damaged or poorly aligned baby teeth, thinking, “they’ll fall out on their own.” But that’s not always the case! If baby teeth interfere with proper bite alignment, it’s time to visit the vet. In such cases, extraction is necessary to prevent future problems.

Just like humans, pets are prone to plaque and tartar buildup — the biggest enemies of healthy teeth. Small dog breeds are especially at risk, but large breeds and cats can also suffer. If not addressed in time, plaque can lead to serious conditions such as gingivitis or periodontitis.

To prevent this, clean your pet’s teeth daily, starting from a young age. Make it a habit, and your pet will thank you for it!

Think brushing your dog’s or cat’s teeth is difficult? Not at all! The key is to start early. Make teeth cleaning a fun game, rewarding your pet with treats, and soon they’ll accept it as part of their routine.

Important to know: Even if you think your pet is not prone to plaque buildup, think again. Plaque and tartar formation depend not only on diet but also on the breed and metabolism of your pet.

If you’ve noticed tartar on your pet’s teeth, don’t delay a visit to the vet. Tartar can be removed early with ultrasonic cleaning. This procedure is safe and performed under light anesthesia, minimizing stress for your pet and ensuring a high-quality result.

Why is anesthesia safe? Modern veterinary anesthesia is completely safe and helps your pet comfortably undergo the procedure. Anesthesia allows the vet to clean the teeth without causing pain or fear, making the treatment more effective.

There are plenty of toothpastes for dogs and cats available on the market today. Which one should you choose? The brand doesn’t matter as much as regular use. Toothpaste helps prevent plaque and tartar buildup, but if tartar is already present, only professional cleaning can remove it. Beware of sprays that claim to dissolve tartar — they are usually less effective than toothpaste.

One of the most common myths is that dogs should chew bones for healthy teeth. In reality, this is not only unhelpful but also dangerous! Chewing bones can break your dog’s teeth, and bone fragments can get stuck, causing infections. It’s even more dangerous when dogs chew sticks — these contain substances like silicon dioxide that wear down teeth.

Your pet’s dental health is essential to their overall health and long life. Don’t postpone oral care. Daily brushing, regular vet visits, and professional help are the keys to a healthy and happy smile for your pet.

Give your pet a life free of pain and problems — start caring for their teeth today! Book a consultation at our veterinary clinic and keep your beloved companion healthy and happy.