February is Pet Dental Health Month. You may not realize it but pets need regular dental check-ups just like people. The American Veterinary Dental College reports that most cats and dogs show signs of dental disease by the time they are three years old. Poor oral hygiene can result in bad breath, tooth loss, damage to gums and bone, and ultimately diseases of the heart, liver, and kidneys. Luckily, regular dental care can prevent such scary outcomes.

Dental care for pets doesn’t look all that different than for people. First, teeth brushing is one of the best ways to prevent tartar buildup and gum disease. Pet supply stores sell pet-specific toothbrushes and toothpaste that is safe for animal consumption. Teaching your pet to tolerate a toothbrush at a young age is best but it can be done at any time with a little patience. Next, feeding a healthy diet including specially made dental treats that scrape tartar buildup and provide a flossing effect is crucial. Finally, regular dental exams at your veterinarian will help identify problems before they become emergencies. Your vet can determine how often exams and deep cleanings need to happen.

For many pet owners, the cost of pet dental care can be prohibitive. Teeth cleanings can range from $250-$900 and usually require x-rays, some kind of sedative, several hours at the vet, and sometimes tooth extractions. All of these factors can intimidate even the most responsible of pet owners. But there are ways to offset the costs. For instance, pet health insurance. Insurance plans can cover anything from routine to emergency care and help spread the cost over a long period instead of all at once. Shop around to find one that covers you and your pet’s needs. Additionally, shelters and humane societies will often host low-cost clinics. Although you may not be able to receive specialty care at those clinics you may be able to get referrals or discounts at another facility. Finally, reach out to your local veterinary offices. Prices vary between practices and some will provide 10-20% discounts for dental services in the month of February.

Having any pet is a financial responsibility and it can be tempting to skip routine care especially in economically stressed times. However, consider that treating dog kidney disease can cost over $5000 and treating heart disease can require hundreds of dollars of medication a month. Worst of all, the long-term effects of poor dental hygiene reduce our pet’s quality of life and lifespan. The best, kindest, and cheapest way to avoid these consequences is practicing daily, routine, and veterinary guided dental care. Understanding pet dental hygiene is the most important first step to taking care of your pet’s teeth. Be aware of the common myths surrounding your pet so you can address issues as they arise. Contrary to what many people believe, bad breath is not “normal” and dry foods do not do enough to keep teeth clean. Dogs and cats, just like humans, have bacteria in their mouths which, if left unchecked, can lead to infections. Early detection and intervention is your best weapon against dental problems.