Dental Disease in Senior Pets: Prevention & Treatment Options

As pets grow older, their health needs naturally change. One area that often goes overlooked is dental care. Senior pets are especially prone to dental disease, which can cause pain, infection, and even lead to more serious health issues affecting the heart, kidneys, and liver. Our veterinarians in Alvin, TX are here to help you protect your pet’s smile at every stage of life.
 

Why Senior Pets Are at Higher Risk for Dental Disease

Dogs and cats commonly develop plaque and tartar buildup over the years. Without regular professional cleanings and at-home care, this buildup can turn into periodontal disease. Older pets may also experience:

• Gum recession and tooth loss

• Oral infections

• Difficulty chewing

• Bad breath due to bacteria

• Systemic health concerns linked to oral bacteria

These symptoms often progress slowly, making dental disease easy to miss until discomfort becomes severe.
 

Common Signs of Dental Disease in Senior Pets

Pet owners should be mindful of subtle behavioral and physical changes. Contact us for pet dental care in Alvin if your dog or cat shows:

• Persistent bad breath

• Reluctance to eat or chewing differently

• Drooling or pawing at the mouth

• Loose or missing teeth

• Red, swollen, or bleeding gums

Early detection helps prevent advanced disease and supports a better quality of life as your pet ages.
 

Preventing Dental Disease in Older Pets

Prevention starts at home and continues with routine veterinary care. Here are a few ways to protect your senior pet’s oral health:

• Brush teeth regularly with pet-safe toothpaste

• Offer dental chews approved by your veterinarian

• Provide a balanced diet to support oral health

• Schedule annual or semi-annual dental checkups

• Follow through with professional cleanings when recommended

Our veterinary team can tailor a dental care routine specifically for your pet based on their age, breed, and current oral health.
 

Treatment Options for Senior Pet Dental Issues

If dental disease has already developed, treatment can help restore comfort and prevent further damage. Depending on your pet’s needs, treatment may include:

• Thorough professional dental cleaning

• Digital dental X-rays to evaluate below the gumline

• Tooth extraction for painful or infected teeth

• Antibiotics or anti-inflammatory medications

• Pain management to keep your pet comfortable

We use modern equipment and safe anesthesia protocols to help ensure your senior pet’s procedure is as smooth and stress-free as possible.
 

Give Your Senior Pet Something to Smile About

Dental health plays a major role in your senior pet’s overall well-being. By staying proactive with at-home care and veterinary visits, you can help prevent painful problems and keep your pet happy and healthy into their golden years. Our veterinarians in Alvin, TX are committed to providing comprehensive pet dental care in Alvin for pets of all ages.

Contact Alvin Animal Clinic to schedule a dental exam and cleaning today. Contact our office in Alvin, Texas, by calling (281) 585-5183 to book an appointment.