As pets enter their golden years, their health needs shift—and one area that often gets overlooked is dental care. Just like in humans, aging pets are more vulnerable to oral health issues that can lead to pain, tooth loss, and even impact vital organs.

At Northwood Veterinary Hospital in Northwood, New Hampshire, we understand how critical dental care is to a senior pet’s overall well-being. Prioritizing routine oral health not only keeps your pet comfortable but can also prevent more serious systemic issues from developing.

 Explore our dental care services or schedule an appointment today.

Why Dental Care Becomes More Important with Age

The Aging Mouth: What Changes?

As pets get older, several factors make them more prone to dental disease:

  • Tartar and plaque build up faster with age
  • Gums become more sensitive and susceptible to infection
  • Weakened immune systems reduce their ability to fight bacteria
  • Changes in diet or chewing habits can worsen oral health

Some common dental treats and chews marketed as beneficial may actually harm your pet’s teeth. Learn more in Potential Dangers of Popular Dog Chews – Preventive Vet and Don’t Chew On This! – AAHA.

More Than a Smile: Systemic Health Risks

Dental disease doesn’t stop at the mouth. Bacteria from untreated gum disease can enter the bloodstream and spread to organs like the heart, kidneys, and liver—putting your pet at risk for serious conditions including:

  • Endocarditis (heart inflammation)
  • Chronic kidney disease
  • Complications in diabetic pets

Routine dental care is a powerful way to help prevent these life-threatening issues.

Signs of Dental Disease in Senior Pets

Watch for these common red flags:

  • Bad breath
  • Reluctance to eat or chew
  • Red or swollen gums
  • Pawing at the mouth
  • Excessive drooling
  • Discolored or loose teeth

Behavioral changes—like avoiding toys or sudden irritability—may also indicate oral discomfort. Get step-by-step guidance in the Dog Dental Care Guide – Colorado State University.

If you suspect fractured or damaged teeth, learn about treatment options from Diagnosis and Treatment of Fractured Teeth – Today’s Veterinary Practice.

How Routine Dental Care Supports Long-Term Health

Regular Dental Exams: A Senior Pet Essential

Veterinary dental exams allow us to catch problems early and create a plan that supports both comfort and longevity. For senior pets especially, routine checkups help prevent pain and ensure oral issues aren’t silently impacting their health.

We often recommend dental X-rays to detect issues beneath the gum line that can’t be seen during a visual exam. Learn more at The Importance of Dental X-Rays – Preventive Vet.

What Happens During a Professional Dental Cleaning?

Professional cleanings typically include:

  • Scaling to remove plaque and tartar
  • Polishing to smooth tooth surfaces
  • Extractions, if needed

These cleanings are performed under anesthesia to ensure comfort and safety. Curious about the process? Visit Anesthesia and Dental Cleaning for Pets – AAHA.

Choosing Safe and Effective Products

When selecting dental products, look for those approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC). You can review their lists of Accepted Products for Dogs and Accepted Products for Cats to ensure you’re choosing effective, evidence-based options.

Why Preventive Dental Care Pays Off

Investing in preventive dental care for your senior pet means:

  • Fewer emergency visits
  • Improved daily comfort and appetite
  • Lower risk of systemic infections
  • Better long-term quality of life

It’s not just about keeping your pet’s breath fresh—it’s about protecting their entire body.

In some cases, oral tumors may be detected during a dental exam. Early diagnosis is key—learn more from the American College of Veterinary Surgeons: Oral Tumors in Small Animals.

Compassionate Senior Pet Care Starts Here

At Northwood Veterinary Hospital, our team is here to guide you through every stage of your pet’s life—with a special focus on aging pets and the unique care they need. We’ll work with you to build a preventive dental care routine tailored to your pet’s health, comfort, and lifestyle.

 Schedule a dental exam today or learn more about our services to keep your pet’s smile strong and their health on track.