How Dental Health Affects Your Pet’s Organs

When we think about dental health for our pets, we often focus on bad breath or tartar buildup. But what many pet owners don’t realize is that dental disease can do much more than affect your pet’s mouth. If left untreated, it can lead to serious problems with vital organs like the heart, kidneys, and liver.

At Goodna Vet, we take your pet’s dental health seriously because it plays a key role in their overall wellbeing.

What Happens When Dental Disease Goes Untreated?

Dental disease typically starts with plaque and tartar buildup. Over time, this can lead to inflammation of the gums, called gingivitis, and eventually to periodontal disease. This is where things can really start to go wrong.

When bacteria from infected gums enter the bloodstream, they don’t just stay in the mouth. They can travel throughout your pet’s body, putting pressure on the heart, kidneys, and liver.

Impact on the Heart

Bacteria from dental infections can latch onto the heart’s inner lining or valves, causing a condition called endocarditis. This inflammation can lead to long-term damage, especially in older pets. It puts added strain on the heart and can worsen any existing heart conditions.

Impact on the Kidneys

The kidneys are responsible for filtering waste from the bloodstream. When bacteria from dental disease circulate through the blood, they can reach the kidneys and trigger inflammation or infection. Over time, this can reduce kidney function and lead to chronic kidney disease, a common and serious condition in ageing pets.

Impact on the Liver

The liver helps filter toxins and support immune function. When it’s exposed to harmful bacteria from dental infections, it can become inflamed. This may show up in blood tests or as symptoms like lethargy, vomiting, or appetite loss.

What You Can Do

The good news is that most dental problems are preventable. Regular dental checks, professional cleaning when needed, and consistent at-home care can make a big difference.

Here are some simple ways to protect your pet’s dental and overall health:

• Schedule regular dental exams with your vet

• Brush your pet’s teeth at home using pet-safe toothpaste

• Use dental diets or chews that reduce plaque and tartar

• Watch for signs of dental problems like bad breath or difficulty eating

Special Offer This Dental Month

Get $50 OFF a Stage 1 Dental Scale & Polish for your pet at Goodna Vet this August. This includes dental x-rays at no extra cost, so we can get a complete picture of your pet’s oral health.

Final Thoughts

Dental care is about more than just clean teeth. It’s about protecting your pet from serious health issues that can affect their entire body. At Goodna Vet, we’re here to help keep your pet healthy from the inside out.

Book a dental consultation with Goodna Vet today and take advantage of our dental health month offer.