Why dental health matters
Oral disease is one of the most common—and most overlooked—health issues in pets. Left untreated, gum disease can cause pain, tooth loss and can affect overall health.
Early signs to watch for
- Persistent bad breath
- Yellow/brown tartar and red gums
- Dropping food, chewing on one side, pawing at the mouth
- Loose or broken teeth, face rubbing, or swelling
At-home prevention
- Daily brushing with pet-safe toothpaste (even a few times/week helps).
- VOHC-accepted dental diets/chews.
- Regular checks: Lift lips weekly to look for redness or buildup.
Professional dental care at the vet
- Oral exam & dental X-rays to assess below the gumline.
- Scale & polish to remove plaque/tartar.
- Extractions if teeth are damaged, painful, or infected.
- Pain control & aftercare tailored to your pet.
How often?
- Annual dental checks for most healthy adults; senior pets and those with prior disease may need more frequent visits.
Post-cleaning home plan
- Restart brushing 3–5 days after a pro cleaning (as directed).
- Maintain dental diet/chews and scheduled rechecks.
CTA:
Noticing bad breath or tartar? Book a dental exam at Sanctuary Veterinary Hospital (Sage Hill, NW Calgary). Call 403-295-0305 or Book Online.