For the past eleven years, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the American Veterinary Dental Society (AVDS) have teemed up to promote and designate February as Pet Dental Month. February is devoted to educating pet owners to the importance of their pet's regular dental care. However, your pet's dental health is so important that you should consider every month as pet dental month.

Poor dental care exposes your pet to serious health risks. Food particles and bacteria build up on the gums forming tartar and plaque. This can lead to gingivitis. Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums. Untreated, it leads to periodontal disease much like that seen in humans. The gums, the roots of the teeth, and the supporting bone structure can be affected. The result can be tooth decay, bad breath, bleeding gums, and tooth loss. The infection even has the potential to enter your pet's bloodstream, potentially affecting the heart, liver, kidneys and lungs.

The American Veterinary Dental Society (AVDS) suggests:

1. Take your pet for a thorough veterinary dental check-up at least once a year. If your pet has plaque build up. A dental cleaning is recommended.

2. Establish a home dental routine. Your vet will be happy to assist you.

3. Monitor your pet's oral health. If you notice red, swollen gums, pain, bleeding, or a change in breath odor contact your veterinarian.

Call our office to make an appointment to check your pet's teeth. We are running a special on dental cleaning.