From Gum Disease to Whole-Body Impact: Pet Dental Health Explained

Is your pet hiding painful dental disease?Most owners, and even some vets, miss the signs until it’s too late. In this compelling episode of Paws and Effect, I chat candidly with veterinary dental expert Morten Hinge to uncover the hidden realities behind your pet’s dental health.In this episode we discover: Why pets can still eat and look happy despite severe oral pain (and why that’s the biggest dental myth)The critical differences between a simple “clean” and a truly preventative veterinary dental procedureWhy anaesthesia is safer than you think, and why it’s essential for real dental careThe power of dental X-rays, and how skipping them can leave pets suffering in silenceCommunication secrets to help owners make informed decisions (without feeling pressured)Breed-specific dental risks, especially in small and brachycephalic breeds, and what you can do from puppyhood to protect your petHonest talk on bones, diet fads, and why DIY “anaesthesia-free dentals” could do more harm than goodHow oral health impacts your pet’s entire body, including kidneys and heartWhether you’re a pet owner wanting to do better for your pet, or a veterinary professional seeking to up your dental game, this episode is packed with actionable advice, myth-busting, and the kind of insights that can change lives.Don’t miss out! Hit play and learn how to truly protect your pet from one of the most overlooked sources of pain, and how the right approach can make all the difference.Like, comment, and subscribe for more expert-backed veterinary insights!SPONSOR: Ultra PetCheck out Ultra Pets New range here: https://ultra-pet.co.za/product/premium-recipe-adult/Connect with Dr Carra:Website: https://drcarra.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_carraLinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drcarra/Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital: https://hillcrestvets.co.za/Connect with Morten Hinge:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mortenvetdentistryInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mortenvetdentistryPodcast Production:This Podcast is produced by Kythe Creative and filmed onsite at Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital.Kythe Creative : https://kythecreative.co.za/THIS EPISODES SPONSORS:Ultra Pet:This episode is sponsored by Ultra Pet, who has been scientifically formulating premium pet food for over 25 years. If you want to take the guesswork out of feeding your furry friends, give Ultra Pet a try. Check them out here at www.ultra-pet.co.zaJust For Pets:Justforpets.co.za is proud to sponsor this episode of the Paws and Effect podcast. Visit their website for all your pet needs and find everything from toys to food and much more. The team over at Just For Pets believe that every pet deserves the best care possible, and that's why we offer a wide range of products to help keep your furry friend happy and healthy - Check them out at https://www.justforpets.co.za/FOR SPONSORSHIPS AND GUEST APPEARANCES, Email us at [email protected] and we'll get in touch with you.Don't forget to LIKE this if you found it helpful, SUBSCRIBE for more episodes and content like this.-------------------------------------------------------------00:00 From Surgery to Dentistry Realization05:11 “Practical Learning and Dental Care”07:37 “Building Trust in Pet Dentistry”12:34 “Dental X-Rays: Essential for Care”16:03 Mandating Dental X-Rays for Clients17:12 “Explaining Full Mouth X-Ray Necessity”22:23 Dog Dental Health Variability25:40 “Tips for Brushing Dog’s Teeth”28:57 Brachycephalic Dental Crowding Issues30:52 “Prevent Impacted Canine Teeth Early”35:32 “Anesthesia Concerns for Older Pets”38:16 Oral Health Impacts Overall Health41:58 “Importance of Post-Extraction X-rays”46:08 Vet Care & Dental Procedure Plan51:16 “Antibiotics Unnecessary for Oral Surgery”52:56 Pre-Surgery NSAIDs and Antibiotics Guidance