Bay City News

Pet Dental Health Month

February 2023!

For the month of February 2023, Bay City Animal Hospital is offering a free dental exam and $80.00 off of your pet’s dental procedure!

85% of pets have dental disease by age 3!

Breaking it down: What is dental disease?

What is periodontal disease? More commonly known as dental disease? Simply put, the definition is, “disease around the tooth.” Periodontal disease is a major gum infection that damages soft tissue and can destroy the bone that supports your teeth. Periodontal disease is painful and unfortunately the most common clinical condition within the pet population. You know that gross fuzzy stuff you notice when you run your tongue across your teeth at the end of day? That’s Plaque, which turns into tartar. Plaque is a bacteria laden, soft sticky film that accumulates on your teeth and under your gums throughout the day. Tartar is the result of a lack of plaque removal, it is hardened plaque, hardened to the point that only a professional with specialized tools can take it off.

What should I watch for?

Periodontal disease is a silent condition. There aren’t many noticeable symptoms. Being up close and personal with your pet's kisser is the best way to stay up to speed on what’s going down in slobberville. Here’s what to watch for: Bad breath, puffy red swollen gums, loose teeth, teeth chattering, head shyness, bloody drool, sneezing, nasal discharge and unwillingness to eat.

Beyond the tooth. Periodontal disease can have far reaching and devastating effects if left untreated. Progressive dental disease in the upper dentition can cause bone erosion into the nasal cavity. Once bone starts to disintegrate, unfortunately fido can’t fetch this one back. Furthermore, the bacteria in the mouth can travel to other parts of the body via the bloodstream, and the bloodstream reaches everywhere.

How can I be proactive in your pet’s dental health? Prevention is key. Simple as that. Keeping up with regular vet visits so a professional can keep an eye on how the mouth changes over time. There are plenty of options out there to choose from one or a combination of some of these methods are sure to be the right fit for you are your fur baby: Brushing, water additives, rinses, wipes, chews and oral foods

Did you know? A normal mouth has clean white teeth and a smooth pink gum line, no redness or tartar should be present.