Is Your Pet's Breath Worse Than Its Bite?

Online, March 11, 2010 (Newswire.com) - Like humans, the health of your pet's teeth and gums has a significant impact on their overall health and quality of life. Imagine how your mouth would feel and taste (and smell!) if you didn't clean your teeth regularly? Imagine having a really bad toothache and not being able to tell anyone about it? Our pets feel pain just like we do, but are not always very good at telling us when they are uncomfortable or sore.

In most cases, owners are unaware that there is a problem, not because they don't care about their pets, but because these problems are hidden away in the mouth. Most animals will continue to eat despite advanced disease, with bad breath and subtle behavioral changes the only hints until the pain becomes unbearable.

Signs that your pet might be in need of dental care might include any combination of bad breath, reluctance or difficulty chewing, chewing on one side, drooling, decreased appetite, face rubbing or pawing, reluctance to be handled around the mouth, or swelling around the face. Inside the mouth you may see red, swollen or bleeding gums, tartar accumulation, ulcers, and broken, discolored or loose teeth.

If you suspect a problem, it's best to arrange a dental check for your pet with your local veterinarian. Remember, it may take years before signs of poor oral health are obvious. Animals don't always tell us when they are uncomfortable, so regular check ups are recommended whether you have noticed any changes or not.
Your local vet can use the services of Sydney Pet Dentistry. Dr Christine Hawke offers advanced dental procedures, including radiology, surgical extractions and root canal therapy.

Dr Christine Hawke is a lecturer at the University of Sydney and a member (by examination) of the Dental Chapter of the Australian College of Veterinary Scientists. She is a resident under veterinary dental specialist Dr David Clarke in Melbourne and is undertaking externships in Seattle and San Diego this year. She is a member of the American and Australian Veterinary Dental Societies.

For more information please visit http://www.sydneypetdentistry.com.au