how dental sealant can benefit your pet

Did you know there’s a dental sealant for dogs and cats? It’s not something many pet owners know about, which is exactly why we’re writing this blog post. A dental sealant is a great option to ask your veterinarian about and consider for your pet’s next dental cleaning appointment.  
 
You might be thinking, “But why should I care about dental sealant?” Good question. Let’s jump into it.   
 

What’s dental sealant?  

Dental sealant acts like a liquid bandage that helps seal the subgingival line (a fancy phrase for the area beneath the gums) against plaque formation.

Plaque is that yucky film made of bacteria that can build up on your dog’s or cat’s teeth, and if left alone, it can harden and turn into tartar, which can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, and a whole lotta pain for your pet.

It can be applied as soon as your puppy or kitten has all of their adult teeth (typically around 6 months of age). To help remove any plaque or tartar, we recommend dental cleanings for your dog or cat. 
 

Wait ... I should be taking my pet to the vet for dental cleanings? 

Yep — we recommend one dental cleaning per year for most dogs or cats (some pets might need more, so check with your veterinarian). These dental cleanings can help prevent or slow advanced dental disease, tooth loss, or infection.

At these appointments, your pet’s veterinary team will evaluate your pet’s oral health and clean above and below the gumline.

This is done under general anesthesia so your pet is comfortable during the procedure. Don’t worry — dental cleanings are super common procedures. Check out our helpful video on what to know before your pet’s dental appointment.  
 

So why should I get dental sealant? 

Regular dental cleanings for your dog or cat remove tartar, but even if you regularly brush your pet’s teeth at home, plaque (and eventually tartar) can build back up quickly. That’s where dental sealant comes in.

When a dental sealant is applied to your pet’s subgingival line at their dental cleaning appointment, it helps protect the area above and below the gumline from plaque buildup.

By reducing plaque build-up, it reduces the formation of tartar which can only be removed during a dental cleaning. Dental sealant dries clear and rapidly and may be recommended once every six months.

Talk with your veterinarian about how to best incorporate dental sealants into your pet's oral health care regimen. (Our comprehensive exams are included in our Optimum Wellness Plans—learn more.)  
 

Sounds great. How do I sign up?  

At your dog’s or cat’s next dental appointment, ask your veterinarian about dental sealant. They’ll be happy to explain the benefits and answer any other questions you have about your pet’s dental cleaning.  
 
If you’re all about oral health and your pet, check out our Active Care Plus and Special Care Optimum Wellness Plans®, which include a yearly professional dental cleaning.

Learn more about our preventive petcare plans here.