DENTAL DISEASE
Dental disease is one of the most common health problems dogs and cats encounter. Roughly 80% of dogs and 70% of cats 3 years or older have some form of periodontal disease. The process of periodontal disease begins with the formation of plaque by salivary proteins and bacteria. The bacteria irritate the gum resulting in gingivitis (inflammation of the gums). If the plaque is removed frequently by tooth brushing, the gingivitis resolves. If the plaque is not removed, then it hardens into tartar. The rough surface of the tartar provides more surface area for even more plaque to form. At this point, bad breath occurs. Inflammation continues in the gums and can become so severe as to cause bone loss around the tooth roots. Eventually, the bone loss can be such that the teeth become loose and may fall out.
Tooth loss may not sound like the end of the world, but more severe consequences can result from periodontal disease. The millions of bacteria present in a periodontal disease stricken mouth can spread to other parts of the body, especially the heart and kidneys, resulting in severe disease in these organs.
Of course, plaque removal reverses the gingivitis and restores gum and tooth health. As mentioned previously, dedicated tooth brushing works best in removing plaque. A soft-bristled toothbrush with a small head or other dog- or cat-specific toothbrush is the best tool for removing plaque from your pet?s teeth. Furthermore, special pet toothpaste is available in different flavors. Human toothpaste should not be used as the foaming agents in the human products can cause stomach upset if swallowed. Fluoride is not necessary because cats and dogs do not generally get cavities. Feeding special tooth diets such as Hill?s T/D and encouraging chewing activities with hard rubber or nylon toys also help decrease the accumulation of plaque.
Having talked about prevention, what do we do when there is already tartar present? Although bone destruction cannot be reversed, gingivitis can, with ultrasonic scaling above and below the gum line. As we cannot tell the pet to "hold still," this procedure must be done with the pet being under anesthesia. Although anesthesia has its inherent risks, having blood work done to ascertain the health of your pet?s organs can minimize these risks.
Daily tooth brushing, special diets, chewing activities, and regular examinations by your veterinarian can provide your companion with fresh breath and healthy teeth and gums. In addition, you will be helping your pet maintain his or her overall good health.
Check out this link to get more information on dental health for your pets:http://www.petdental.com
Tooth loss may not sound like the end of the world, but more severe consequences can result from periodontal disease. The millions of bacteria present in a periodontal disease stricken mouth can spread to other parts of the body, especially the heart and kidneys, resulting in severe disease in these organs.
Of course, plaque removal reverses the gingivitis and restores gum and tooth health. As mentioned previously, dedicated tooth brushing works best in removing plaque. A soft-bristled toothbrush with a small head or other dog- or cat-specific toothbrush is the best tool for removing plaque from your pet?s teeth. Furthermore, special pet toothpaste is available in different flavors. Human toothpaste should not be used as the foaming agents in the human products can cause stomach upset if swallowed. Fluoride is not necessary because cats and dogs do not generally get cavities. Feeding special tooth diets such as Hill?s T/D and encouraging chewing activities with hard rubber or nylon toys also help decrease the accumulation of plaque.
Having talked about prevention, what do we do when there is already tartar present? Although bone destruction cannot be reversed, gingivitis can, with ultrasonic scaling above and below the gum line. As we cannot tell the pet to "hold still," this procedure must be done with the pet being under anesthesia. Although anesthesia has its inherent risks, having blood work done to ascertain the health of your pet?s organs can minimize these risks.
Daily tooth brushing, special diets, chewing activities, and regular examinations by your veterinarian can provide your companion with fresh breath and healthy teeth and gums. In addition, you will be helping your pet maintain his or her overall good health.
Check out this link to get more information on dental health for your pets:http://www.petdental.com
