February is National Pet Dental Health Month, so it’s a great time to focus on our pet’s pearly whites.

Good dental health is a key part of any pet’s overall health. For example, periodontal disease — inflammation or infection of the gums and other soft tissues around the teeth — can spread to other parts of the body.

That’s why your pet should have a complete veterinary dental exam and cleaning at least once a year. More often if your pet develops bad breath, trouble eating, a reduced appetite, bleeding from the mouth — even general irritability.

One last thing: Veterinarians recommend that pets be anesthetized for optimal dental evaluation and teeth cleaning. Preventing movement, stress and pain makes the procedure safer.