I’ve just become an expert in animal dental care. Well, not an official expert. I’m not a veterinarian or vet tech but I have just been through extensive dental work with my girl dog and now I know a lot more about responsible guardian dental care than before. It’s not that I didn’t know it before – I just let it slide.
Alright, no more excuses. Jezebel has several fewer teeth this week than she did last, and I’m going to be brushing those few remaining teeth every day. She’ll be annoyed at first but I’ll communicate with her that this process is for her good, and she’ll question my logic but she’ll believe me eventually. It’s my responsibility as her guardian to do this for her.
All domestic animals need routine and regular dental care just as humans do. Home dental care and regular dental exams are a must. I love my vet and she’s done great dental work on my beloved animals in the past, but she also knows when to recommend a specialist with appropriate equipment including an x-ray machine with dental capabilities. A visual exam did not reveal the area where a tooth had broken off under the gum-line, leaving the roots intact but dying. Dental x-rays are also important for small mouths (like Jezebel) where tooth roots naturally grow near and even into the jawbone. Your veterinarian may be well equipped to take care of any anticipated and unanticipated dental issues, but if not then take their recommendation for a local veterinary dental specialist.
Every pet needs regular dental care, no matter the age. Pick up a toothbrush from any pet store and schedule appropriate dental exams and cleanings as part of your routine pet health care. Your pet’s beautiful smile will be all the thanks you need!






