Although we often joke about stinky doggy breath or our cat’s fish breath, pet dental health is an essential part of overall wellness and longevity. Bad breath can be just one sign of growing dental health conditions, such as gingivitis and periodontal disease, which can cause pain and also contribute to serious systemic health issues if they are not treated. At Longevity Veterinary Center in Whippany, NJ, our professional healthcare team offers comprehensive pet dental services to help pets to live longer, healthier, and more active lives. 

Gingivitis: A Common Health Issue in Dogs and Cats

Veterinary research shows that more than 70% of cats and 80% of dogs show signs of dental disease by the age of three years old. Commonly, gingivitis is discovered when our Longevity veterinarians do dental check ups. Gingivitis is an early stage of dental disease caused by plaque and bacteria accumulating along the gumline. This bacterial buildup leads to inflammation, resulting in red or swollen gums, bleeding, and persistent bad breath. Because pets instinctively hide discomfort, gingivitis often goes unnoticed by pet owners until the condition progresses.

If not treated, gingivitis can develop into periodontal disease, a more advanced and irreversible condition that damages the teeth, gums, and jawbone. 

How Dental Disease Affects Whole-Body Health

Unfortunately for our pets, dental disease does not stay confined only to the mouth. The bacteria associated with infected gums can enter the bloodstream and spread to vital organs such as the heart, liver, kidneys, and immune system. This systemic inflammation can worsen chronic conditions and may reduce a pet’s lifespan—particularly in senior pets. This is precisely why maintaining your pet’s dental health and well-being is so vital to their longevity and quality of life.

How to Improve Your Pet’s Dental Health

Professional dental cleanings are the most effective way to treat gingivitis and prevent the progression of periodontal disease. At Longevity Veterinary Center we offer both non-anesthetic dental cleanings for pets with simple dental care needs and dental cleanings under anesthesia for those with more significant dental care needs. 

A complete dental cleaning includes:

  • Removal of plaque and tartar above and below the gumline
  • Ultrasonic scaling and polishing of the teeth
  • Identification of loose or cracked teeth, and treatment of painful, infected, or damaged teeth including extractions when necessary
  • Constant monitoring during anesthesia, if needed

While professional dental cleanings are essential, at-home dental care does help to maintain results between visits. Regular brushing with pet-safe toothpaste, veterinary-recommended dental diets, chews, and oral health products can reduce plaque accumulation and slow the return of gingivitis. 

Our Longevity Veterinary team provides personalized dental care recommendations based on your pet’s age, breed, and health needs. Protecting your pet’s oral health is one of the most impactful steps you can take to support a longer, healthier, and happier life. As February is Pet Dental Health Month, we are offering 15% off all of our dental cleanings throughout the month (both anesthetic and non-anesthetic dental cleanings). Call (973) 606-1101 to schedule your pet’s dental health exam and to give them the gift of improved wellness.