Your pet’s bad breath isn’t normal!

Do you suffer from your pet’s bad breath? Bad breath isn’t normal; it’s a sign of disease! Dental disease, untreated, is often painful and contributes to other system illnesses which can shorten your pet’s life.

Battle Ground Veterinary Clinic is offering $25 off a dental cleaning from January 1^st 2010 until March 31, 2010. Please call 742-2587 today to schedule an appointment.

What is dental disease?

Periodontal disease is an infection of the tissue surrounding the teeth that takes hold in progressive stages. It starts out as a bacterial film called plaque. The bacteria attach to the teeth. When the bacteria die they can be calcified by calcium in saliva. This forms a hard, rough substance called tartar or calculus which allows more plaque to accumulate. Initially, plaque is soft and brushing or chewing hard food and toys can dislodge it. If left to spread, plaque can lead to gingivitis, an inflammation of the gums, causing them to become red and swollen and to bleed easily.

As plaque and calculus develop below the gum line, professional cleaning will be needed to help manage it. If the plaque and tartar buildup continues unchecked, infection can form around the root of the tooth.

In the final stages of periodontal disease, the tissues surrounding the tooth are destroyed, the bony socket holding the tooth in erodes and the tooth becomes loose. This is a very painful process for your four-legged friend, but these problems can be averted before they even start.

How do I know if my pet has dental disease?

Below are pictures of the stages of dental disease:

Great teeth!

No sign of plaque or calculus! Home dental care can help maintain these healthy teeth and gums. Dental chews, Hills t/d treats, and/or brushing teeth with pet toothpaste are all good tools for keeping teeth clean.

Stage 1 - mild gingivitis

Margin of attached gum is inflamed and swollen. Plaque and tartar are present. Dental cleaning is needed to remove buildup and prevent progression of dental disease.

Stage 2 - moderate gingivitis

The entire gum is inflamed and swollen. Odor is noticeable; mouth is painful. Bacteria will begin to impact other body organs. Dental cleaning is needed as soon as possible. Home care will be needed to prevent future tooth loss and pain.

Stage 3 - severe gingivitis

Gums are extremely red and bleeding. Gums have been damaged by infection and calculus. Sore mouth and bad breath are obvious. Heart valves and kidneys may be damaged from bacteria and inflammation. Dental cleaning is needed immediately. Extractions are likely.

Stage 4 – periodontal disease

Infection is destroying the teeth, gum, and bone. Bacteria are spreading through the body damaging the kidneys, liver and heart. Dental cleaning needed immediately. Many teeth may be loose and need extraction.

What do I do if my pet has dental disease?

Contact your veterinarian and schedule a dental cleaning!