When was the last time you checked your pet’s teeth? For many pet parents, dental care is often overlooked until bad breath, bleeding gums, or tooth loss becomes impossible to ignore. Yet, oral health plays a vital role in your pet’s overall wellbeing and neglecting it can lead to serious, long-term health problems.
To raise awareness about this critical aspect of pet care, Zigly is currently running a Dental Health Awareness Campaign at its centres, offering:
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Free dental check-ups for pets
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Flat 20% off on dental scaling
This initiative is designed to help pet parents understand the importance of dental care and take preventive action before dental disease affects their pet’s quality of life.
Let’s explore why dental health matters, how it impacts the body, and what you can do to protect your pet.
Dental Health Is Not Just About Fresh Breath
Many pet parents assume dental care is only about preventing bad breath. In reality, your pet’s mouth is a gateway to their entire body. Bacteria that grow on teeth and gums can spread through the bloodstream and affect vital organs such as the heart, liver, and kidneys.
Poor dental health can lead to:
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Chronic pain and discomfort
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Difficulty eating
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Infections that spread beyond the mouth
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Weakened immunity
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Shortened lifespan
Taking care of your pet’s teeth is not cosmetic, it is essential medical care.
The Most Common Dental Problem in Pets
The most widespread dental issue in pets is periodontal disease, caused by plaque and tartar buildup. It develops in stages:
Stage 1: Plaque Formation
Food particles mix with bacteria to form plaque on the teeth.
Stage 2: Tartar and Gingivitis
Plaque hardens into tartar and irritates the gums, causing redness and inflammation.
Stage 3: Advanced Periodontal Disease
Bacteria penetrate below the gumline, damaging tissue and bone. Teeth may loosen or fall out.
By the age of three, most dogs and cats show signs of periodontal disease even if they seem healthy on the outside.
How Dental Disease Affects the Entire Body
When bacteria from infected gums enter the bloodstream, they can reach major organs. This can result in:
Heart Problems: Bacteria can attach to heart valves, increasing the risk of infections and heart disease.
Kidney Damage: The kidneys work to filter toxins from the blood. Constant bacterial exposure can overload them, leading to kidney disease over time.
Liver Issues: The liver may struggle to detoxify harmful bacteria, affecting metabolism and digestion.
Weakened Immune System: A persistent oral infection keeps the immune system in a constant state of alert, reducing its ability to fight other diseases.
Signs Your Pet May Have Dental Issues
Pets rarely show obvious signs of mouth pain. However, subtle symptoms can indicate trouble:
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Persistent bad breath
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Yellow or brown buildup on teeth
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Red or bleeding gums
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Dropping food while eating
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Chewing on one side
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Pawing at the mouth
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Excessive drooling
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Facial swelling
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Reduced appetite
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Irritability or lethargy
These signs should never be ignored, as dental disease progresses silently.
Why Early Dental Care Makes a Big Difference
Treating dental problems early:
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Prevents painful infections
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Avoids tooth loss
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Reduces the risk of organ damage
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Minimizes the need for surgical procedures
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Saves long-term treatment costs
Preventive dental care is far easier and safer than treating advanced periodontal disease.
What Happens During a Professional Dental Check-Up?
A veterinary dental exam typically includes:
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Inspection of teeth and gums
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Assessment of plaque and tartar levels
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Checking for loose or fractured teeth
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Identifying gum infections or abscesses
If required, dental scaling is recommended to remove tartar above and below the gumline. This deep cleaning helps:
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Stop bacterial growth
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Heal gum inflammation
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Restore oral hygiene
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Prevent disease progression
Professional scaling is one of the most effective ways to protect your pet’s dental and overall health.
Conclusion
Your pet’s dental health is directly connected to their heart, kidneys, liver, and immune system. Neglecting oral care does not just cause bad breath; it can lead to infections, organ damage, and reduced quality of life.
Preventive dental care, regular check-ups, and simple home routines can protect your pet from unnecessary pain and long-term illness.
As part of its commitment to pet wellness, Zigly is currently running a Dental Health Awareness Campaign at its centres, offering:
-
Free dental check-ups for pets
-
Flat 20% off on dental scaling
This campaign aims to make dental care more accessible while helping pet parents understand why oral health should never be ignored. Whether your pet already shows signs of dental issues or appears perfectly healthy, a professional dental check-up is a powerful step toward ensuring a longer, healthier, and happier life.
Visit your nearest Zigly Pet Care Centre today or book an appointment only.
