JACKSONVILLE, Texas, April 29, 2012 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Animal Medical Clinic in Jacksonville, TX is continuing their work to raise awareness about the importance of dental pet hygiene. The animal clinic promoted pet dental health during the entire month of February earlier this year. The clinic is continuing to remind owners about the importance of this routine wellness care throughout the rest of the year. According to the clinic, the majority of pets over the age of three years have some form of periodontal disease. Periodontal disease can lead to serious health problems, including bacterial gum infections. Regular cleanings – both at the clinic and at home – can help avoid these health problems. In addition to dental pet care, the clinic also provides routine wellness care, vaccinations, spay/neuter operations and pet boarding.
Veterinarian Dr. Ira Stephens is committed to raising awareness about dental cleanings as an important part of Jacksonville. Although the veterinary hospital promoted February as "Pet Dental" month, the vet continues to emphasize the importance of regular cleanings for pets and home pet dental care.
"No one likes the smell of stinky dog breath, but many pet owners fail to realize that this bad breath is more than just a nuisance," said Dr. Stephens. "Bad breath in pets is a sign of an underlying oral health problem, such as a gum infection or periodontal disease."
According to Dr. Stephens, an estimated 80 percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats age three and older suffer from periodontal disease. Periodontal disease not only causes bad breath, but left untreated, bacterial build up along the gum line can cause an infection.
"Gingivitis and periodontal disease are growing problems for pets," said Dr. Stephens. "Without proper treatment, a bacterial infection along the gum line may enter the bloodstream. This infection can cause serious damage to internal organs, including the kidney, liver and heart. Fortunately, an annual dental appointment can keep a pet's teeth and gums health."
During a dental treatment, Dr. Stephens and the veterinary care team scrapes away plaque and tartar from along the gum line. The veterinarian will also polish the teeth, creating a smooth surface resistant to bacterial build-up.
Dr. Stephens is also emphasizing the importance of at-home care with pet owners, including regular tooth brushing.
"Imagine how unpleasant your own teeth would feel if you never brushed!" said Dr. Stephens. "While pets may be initially resistant to brushing, over time it is essential that pet owners work to establish this important oral health habit."
The animal clinic's veterinary care team frequently works with pet owners to help demonstrate proper brushing technique.
"If pets are resistant to brushing, start by using a rubber dental brush that fits over the finger," said Dr. Stephens. "This gives pet owners greater control with brushing, and helps introduce pets to this hygiene habit."
Pet owners can learn more about dental care by contacting the veterinarian or visiting the website at http://www.animalmedicalclinicjacksonville.com.