About Dental Care for Animals

Since fewer than 5% of all clients currently provide routine dental care for their pet, we have quite a few patients to care for! Approaching the need for a dental scaling and polishing starts with explaining what periodontal disease is and what happens to the body as a result.

Why Periodontal Disease is Harmful

Periodontal disease is just that—a disease. Once you understand that it is a disease just like hyperthyroidism, arthritis or heart disease, you will begin to understand why it is so important to treat. Gingivitis is defined as reversible inflammation of the tissues surrounding the tooth crown or normal exposed tooth surface. Most cats and dogs develop gingivitis by two years of age.

Periodontal disease is an irreversible condition that results in gum recession, tooth root exposure, loss of surrounding bone, loosening of the tooth, and eventual tooth loss. If untreated, most pets will develop periodontal disease by age three to five. Pain develops as the gum recedes, exposing underlying sensitive tissues, and as the tooth becomes loose. Once tartar and plaque become established on the tooth surface, it begins to harden and mineralize. This is called calculus and is often found on the upper third and fourth premolars of dogs and cats.

The bacteria that cause periodontal disease also cause problems throughout the body. As the number of pathogenic bacteria increase in the mouth, they are absorbed through the inflamed gums into the bloodstream and enter the intestinal tract through swallowing. These bacteria contribute to the development or urinary tract infections, kidney infections, diminished immune system and heart valve infections (endocardiosis and endocarditis).

Symptoms of Periodontal Disease:

· Bad Breath

· Yellow or brown crust

· Bleeding gums

· Going to food bowl but not eating

· Tooth loss

· Abnormal drooling

· Dropping food out of mouth

Commonly Asked Questions Concerning Dental Care:

1. Will my pet suffer if I don’t take care of its teeth and gums?

Gum disease can cause pets pain and serious dental problems later in life, as well as possibly lead to more serious illnesses, such as heart and kidney disease. But gum disease can be prevented. By caring for your pet’s teeth early, you can spare the discomfort caused by gum disease.

2. Isn’t bad breath in pets just natural?

No. While it is true that bad breath can indicate a more serious illness, bad breath in pets is most often caused by bacteria that form when plaque and tartar are not removed from the teeth, which may cause gum infection.

3. How can a professional dental cleaning by a veterinarian help my pet?

A professional dental cleaning will remove plaque, stain and tartar encrusted above and below the gum line, restoring your dog’s teeth to a clean and polished condition, and removing the bacteria that can cause gum disease.

4. Does it matter whether my pet eats hard or soft food?

Studies show that hard kibbles are slightly better at keeping plaque from accumulating on the teeth. Currently, there is a separate product for dogs and cats that has been proven to help reduce plaque and teeth tartar. If you think your pet needs a special food, consult your family veterinarian.

5. When is my pet too old for tooth brushing?

Your pet is never too old for tooth brushing. In fact, the older your pet gets, the more important it is keeping plaque and tartar from accumulating. Studies show that bacteria from dental diseases can move systematically into the vital organs. Keeping your pet’s mouth healthy is an important step in your pet’s overall good health.