Is there a Hallmark card for Pet Dental Health Month?

According to veterinarian Marty Becker, an aspect of caring for dogs and cats that is the one of the most overlooked is dental health.

See the article and video from ABC News here. The segment was promoting February as National Pet Dental Health Month.

Becker said bad dental health can cause serious health problems and can shorten the pet's life.

Fortunately, it's easy to change your pet's dental destiny. Veterinarians now recommend brushing your pet's teeth daily to prevent problems. It's not difficult to teach pets to accept this daily regimen, as long as you start slowly and use positive reinforcement as your pet learns to accept first your handling of his mouth, the introduction of brush and paste and finally a full daily brushing.

Becker also recommends feeding a dental diet along with a paste called OraVet Plaque Prevention Gel that is rubbed on the pet's teeth once a week.

But brushing isn't enough: Your pet also needs your veterinarian's help to keep teeth and gums healthy. That means a complete oral examination on at least an annual basis -- twice a year is even better -- which may include dental X-rays to locate problems just as it does with your own dentist.

Becker said to be wary of some groomers who offer "anesthesia-free" teeth cleaning. He calls them cosmetic procedures that may make your pet's dental problem worse in the long run.

Watch the video. Becker demonstrates how to brush a dog's teeth on a real dog that belongs to guest anchor Jeremy Hubbard.