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 Pets
Have Teeth Too!Imagine how your teeth would look and feel if you didn't brush them daily. The same applies to your pets teeth. Unless you are regularly providing some form of dental care, you are neglecting an important factor in the overall health of your pet. Periodontal (gum) disease is one of the most common conditions seen by veterinarians today. The problem begins when plaque and tartar are allowed to build up on your pets teeth. Plaque harbors the bacteria which can infect gum tissue and the roots of teeth resulting in disease and tooth loss. Besides the negative impact on the oral cavity, bacteria can enter the bloodstream through the large network of blood vessels located near the gums and teeth. Recent studies have documented that certain heart, liver, and kidney diseases may be associated with these bacteria . |
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Signs and Symptoms of Poor Oral Health |
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| Caring For Your Pet's Teeth | |
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The first step in promoting oral health is to contact
your veterinarian for a thorough oral examination. At this time, it may be
necessary have your pets teeth cleaned above and below the gumline.
Like people, animals need this professional attention on a routine basis. This cleaning will require your pet to be put under anesthesia. Recent advancements in anesthetic techniques and materials have greatly reduced the risks previously associated with this procedure. However: if you have any concerns regarding anesthesia, please discuss them with your veterinarian.
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| Home Care | |
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Since toothbrushing is considered the most effective
method of removing plaque, most veterinarians recommend an oral hygiene
program which includes brushing your pets teeth. It is important to
use a toothbrush and toothpaste designed for pets. Pet toothbrushes are
ultra-soft and shaped to fit your pets mouth and teeth. Pet toothpastes have
flavors that appeal to pets and need not be rinsed. Do not use human
toothpaste or baking soda. These products often contain ingredients which
should not be swallowed. When brushing is not practical, veterinarians
may recommend an antibacterial oral rinse or gel for some pets. These
products are formulated specifically for pets, and with daily use, they can help slow accumulation of dental plaque.
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| Diet | |
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Diet can be a major factor in the development of plaque
and tartar. Soft or sticky foods may contribute to plaque build-up and subsequent periodontal disease. Dry food, biscuits, and newly-formulated abrasive diets can be helpful in removing plaque above the gumline. In addition, specially-treated abrasive dental chews are also available for both cats and dogs. Providing your pet with these abrasive, resilient dental chews is often a good alternative for those days when you do not brush. However, only toothbrushing can remove plaque and food debris below the gumline. It is below the gumline where disease causing bacteria flourish, resulting in irritation, inflammation, and infection.
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| Home Care Instructions | |
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Brushing your pets teeth is easy and doesn't take much
time. The first step is to select a convenient time when you and your pet
are both relaxed. For the first few days, simply hold your pet as you
normally do when petting him/her. Gently stroke the outside of your pets
cheeks with your finger for a minute or two. After each session, reward your
pet with an appropriate treat and lots of praise. For the next few
days-after your pet has become comfortable with this activity-place a small
amount of an animal dentifrice on your finger and let your pet sample the
flavor. Pets like the taste of the dentifrice and will soon consider it a
treat. Next introduce your pet to an animal toothbrush or fingerbrush.
Place a small amount of dentifrice on the brush. Gently raise your pets
upper lip and place the brush against an upper tooth. With a slow
circular motion, gently brush only that tooth and the adjoining gumline.
Each day gradually increase the number of teeth brushed, but go slowly. Do
not go beyond your pets point of comfort. Build up to approximately 30 seconds of brushing per side. And remember, after each session, reward your pet with a treat and lots of praise. If you are having any problems brushing your pet's teeth, contact your veterinarian.
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| Important | |
| Be patient proceed slowly and gently. Use plenty of petting and praise. Soon, both you and your pet will look forward to the time you spend together during this important health care procedure. | |
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The Progression of Gingivitis to Periodontal Disease: Feline |
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Mild Gingivitis Margin of attached gingiva (gum) is inflamed and swollen. Plaque covering teeth. Treatment can reverse condition. |
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Moderate Gingivitis Entire attached gingiva
(gum) is inflamed and swollen. Mouth is painful and odor begins to be
noticeable. Professional treatment and home dental care can prevent this from becoming irreversible. |
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Severe Gingivitis Cherry red and bleeding, attached gingiva (gum). Gingiva is becoming destroyed by infection and calculus (tartar). Sore mouth affects eating and behavior. Bad breath is present. Beginning of periodontal disease. May become irreversible. |
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Periodontal Disease Chronic bacterial infection is destroying the gum, tooth, and bone. Bacteria are spreading throughout the body via the bloodstream and may damage the kidneys, liver, and heart. |
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Photos courtesy of Jan Bellows, D.V.M., P.A., Dipl.A.V.D.C., Dipl.A.B.V.P. |
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