A Note from Your Pet’s Dentist

Dental care is all too often neglected in our pets. When was the last time you checked your pet’s teeth? Have you raised his or her lip to check the teeth, especially those teeth in the back of the mouth? If not, you may be in for a big surprise.

Animals, like people, suffer from the build-up of tartar (calculus). It is most commonly seen in small breed dogs and cats. This is possibly related to a combination of diet, size of teeth and a smaller jaw size. Animals with abnormal “bites” or malocclusions are also more prone to calculus build-up.

The diagnosis of this form of dental disease is fairly easy. A yellow-brownish film material will be seen extending from the gum line across the surface of the tooth. This material is a mineralized form of food particles, bacteria and bacteria by-products. Few or all teeth may be affected.

If tartar remains on the teeth, bacteria will invade the gum line resulting in red, swollen and painful gums. Gingivitis and/or periodontal disease have developed. At this point you may notice your pet’s bad breath.

Once dental disease has progressed this far the loss of teeth is certain to follow. The loss of teeth is bad, but the presence of chronic infection in the mouth can put stresses on other parts of your pet’s body. Dental disease can contribute to both heart and kidney disease.

The best treatment for dental disease is preventive medicine. Biweekly cleaning of the teeth with animal toothpaste products is highly recommended. A child’s toothbrush or the rough side of a wash cloth will work fine. With extra praise and positive reinforcement most pets will adapt readily.

Once tartar accumulates on teeth, ultrasonic scaling and polishing is necessary. General anesthesia is required for this procedure. Teeth can be thoroughly cleaned and any necessary extractions can be performed. This procedure may be required annually for your pet.

If you suspect that your pet may be suffering from dental disease, contact our office.