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ORAL HYGIENE IN YOUR PET

Why treat dental problems in pets?

Because dental disease leads to:

Pain.  Most pain in pets is unrecognized by owners. Pets do not show pain as we would expect. Dental disease can cause tremendous discomfort and when the source of pain is removed, we see their increased energy and improved well-being.

Like people pets also feel the pain. Pain threshold of pets in regards to dental conditions such as tooth fractures, pulp exposure, periodontal disease, tooth root abscess etc is similar to that of people.

Pets use their teeth much like people use their hands. Any condition affecting their teeth makes them handicapped.

Infection. Bacteria from oral disease can also cause infection in other organs, such as heart, liver, kidneys, joints and lungs, thus reducing the pet’s vitality and its quality of life.

Bad breath. Periodontal disease may be one of the causes of your pet’s bad breath. People tend to withdraw affection and attention from pets with bad breath.

What to look for:

Dental Disease Overview

Dental (periodontal) disease is initiated by bacteria adhering to the teeth in a substance called plaque.  Plaque is composed almost entirely of bacteria with some sugars and proteins to hold them together. If not removed, plaque will extend under the gum line where the bacteria will secrete toxins, causing inflammation. This in turn results in damage and possible destruction of the tooth’s attachment.

Periodontal disease is broken up into two types, gingivitis and periodontitis.

Gingivitis is the less serious type. It is the initial, reversible stage in which the inflammation is confined to the gums (gingiva). This inflammation may be reversed by a dental cleaning and home-care (brushing). Gingivitis, if left untreated, may progress to periodontitis.

Periodontitis is the more advanced irreversible stage in which the inflammation affects the bone and soft tissues (supporting structures) of the tooth resulting in their destruction. While it is irreversible, it is possible to arrest its progression with proper professional therapy and home care.

Important Points

Dental disease is a progressive condition in pets. By two years of age, about 80% of dogs and 70% of cats have some degree of dental disease and by five years of age, 95% of dogs have evidence of periodontal disease.

Before initiating dental home-care such as brushing, always have a thorough oral examination performed by your veterinarian. There are many dental problems that you may not be aware of such as:  exposed roots, tartar, diseased gums, tooth fractures and root abscesses.

After a dental cleaning the only way to keep your pet’s teeth clean is by brushing. “Brush, Brush, Brush!” Within a few hours of consuming food, plaque can form on the tooth and visible calculus (tartar) builds up in two days.

In addition to brushing, other preventatives include, giving chew toys, oral rinses, healthy dental treats and dental diets.