Aging Gracefully: Debunking Myths About Senior Pet Dental Care

Thrive Pet Healthcare Highlights the Importance of Dental Care for Older Dogs and Cats

AUSTIN, Texas, Feb. 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Like people, pets experience changes in their health as they age, and their teeth are no exception. Unfortunately, misconceptions about senior dental care can prevent pet owners from taking the steps needed to ensure their furry companions stay healthy and comfortable. Thrive Pet Healthcare addresses five common myths about senior pet dental health.

Myth #1: Dental disease is just a normal part of aging

Some pet owners assume periodontal disease is inevitable as their pets age. However, regular dental care can prevent many oral health issues and significantly enhance a senior pet's quality of life.

"By the time most pets reach three years old, they already show signs of periodontal disease," says Dr. Curt Coffman, Specialty Director of Dentistry at Thrive Pet Healthcare. "Without treatment, this condition only worsens with age, leading to pain, tooth loss, and even serious health complications affecting the heart, liver, and kidneys."

Myth #2: Senior pets are too old for dental cleanings

Veterinary professionals generally consider dogs and cats to be seniors around age seven (larger dog breeds may show signs of aging earlier), but that doesn't mean they should stop receiving dental care. Older pets benefit significantly from professional cleanings, which help prevent painful infections and ensure they can eat comfortably well into their golden years.

"Age should never be the sole reason to forgo dental cleanings," says Dr. Coffman. "With proper precautions and veterinary oversight, senior pets can safely undergo dental cleanings and enjoy improved quality of life."

Myth #3: Anesthesia is too risky for older pets

Some pet owners worry about the risks of anesthesia when it comes to dental cleanings for senior pets. However, modern veterinary procedures make anesthesia safer than ever.

"We take extensive precautions, including pre-anesthetic bloodwork and advanced monitoring, to ensure the safest experience possible for pets of all ages," says Dr. Coffman. "A well-monitored anesthetic procedure is much safer than allowing dental disease to progress unchecked."

Myth #4: Bad breath in pets is normal

Some pet owners assume bad breath is just part of having a pet, but persistent odor is often a sign of underlying dental disease.

"Bad breath isn't just unpleasant—it's a warning sign," Dr. Coffman explains. "If your pet's breath smells foul, it's likely due to bacteria and infection in their mouth. A professional dental cleaning can help eliminate the problem at its source."

Myth #5: There's nothing I can do at home to help my senior pet's teeth

While professional cleanings are essential, at-home care is key in maintaining a pet's oral health. Regular brushing, dental chews, and water additives can help reduce plaque buildup between vet visits.

"Even if your pet isn't able to undergo a professional cleaning, you can still make a difference at home," says Dr. Coffman. "Brushing your pet's teeth daily with pet-safe toothpaste or using vet-recommended dental chews can help protect their smile."

Special Offer to Promote Dental Health

To make dental care more accessible, Thrive Pet Healthcare is offering a $100 discount on professional dental cleanings at participating primary care locations through April 10. This offer excludes dental exams, tooth extractions and oral surgeries. Also, Thrive Plus members will receive an additional 10% off dental cleanings for their pet.

Not a Thrive Plus member? By joining Thrive Plus, pet owners can access unlimited free exams,* $5 nail trims and 10% off services like diagnostics, bloodwork, dental cleanings, and spay/neuter. With a Thrive Plus membership, pet owners have easier access to care for their beloved companions when health concerns arise. No concern is too small.

Visit thrivepetcare.com to find a location near you that includes primary, specialty, emergency, and urgent veterinary care services and participating Thrive Plus membership hospitals.

* Clinic fees may apply. Twelve-month commitment required. Terms apply.

About Thrive Pet Healthcare:
Thrive Pet Healthcare is a leading veterinary service community that uniquely delivers a continuum of care to pet families and services to veterinary hospitals. With an industry-first membership program and more than 380 acute, primary, and specialty providers, Thrive Pet Healthcare offers personalized, accessible care through every stage of a pet's life and health. The veterinarian-founded organization provides premier benefits for practice staff while elevating privately held veterinary hospitals with innovative service and technology solutions. By focusing on the needs and aspirations of veterinary care providers, Thrive Pet Healthcare is supporting the well-being of the industry and raising the national bar for veterinary excellence. To learn more about Thrive Pet Healthcare, please visit www.thrivepetcare.com. 

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SOURCE Thrive Pet Healthcare