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Dental Disease
Regular brushing and regular dental cleanings are just as important for dogs and cats as they are for humans. All too often, our pet's dental needs are overlooked. Untreated teeth can cause serious problems in the overall health of a pet.
Periodontal disease is the number one dental problem in dogs and cats, and can often cause cavities to develop below the gum line, which may be hard to detect. As in humans, abscessed teeth or periodontal disease can affect other parts of the body. In dogs and cats, it can cause heart and kidney disease. We urge you to start a dental program for your pet. Annual dental exam and regular dental cleanings are important to your pet's good health. Equally important is home dental care, such as brushing your pet's teeth three times per week. With patience, many dogs will let you brush their teeth. Another way of keeping tartar off of teeth is to give C.E.T. chews and prescription diets engineered to help keep teeth cleaner.
Stage 1 Dental Disease
Inflamed gums known as gingivitis. Dental disease at this stage is reversible with proper treatment.
Stage 2 Dental Disease
In Stage 2 dental disease the gums start to recede exposing the root and the bony socket of the tooth starts to erode.
Stage 3 Dental Disease
In Stage 3 disease up to 50% of the tooth socket bone is gone and there is significant therapy involved in treatment. Frequent dentals are then required for maintenance.
Stage 4 Dental Disease
Stage 4 disease results in severe bone loss with loose, painful and infected roots. Multiple extractions are the only thing that can relieve the pain and get rid of infection.
Dental Disease Consequences and Prevention
Dental disease is as common in dogs as it is in humans. The most common form of dental disease in humans is cavities. However, in dogs, the most common form of dental disease is tartar buildup. Tartar harbors millions of bacteria that cause gingivitis and bad breath. Eventually these bacteria begin to degrade the cement that anchors a tooth in its socket, otherwise known as the periodontal ligament. At this point tooth roots become exposed and infected, and eventually teeth begin to come loose. What's worse is the bacteria now can be picked up by the blood stream and carried to other organs in the body. Infections of the kidneys, liver, and heart valves frequently begin in the mouth.
Preventing the serious consequences of uncontrolled tartar and dental disease is done the same way in dogs and cats as it is in humans, by a professional dental cleaning. Proper cleaning of your pet's teeth requires anesthesia in order for complete cooperation. The teeth are scaled with hand instruments or ultrasonic cleaning equipment. Then the teeth are polished and fluoride is applied to help strengthen the tooth and reduce the rate of future tartar formation. The frequency of dental cleanings varies from pet to pet. Some require yearly treatment while others, only every few years.
Although there is no way to completely prevent tartar accumulation, there are specially formulated pet foods that are designed to significantly slow tartar buildup. Dry food in general will slow tartar accumulation as compared to soft or canned food. Chewing on approved chew toys and bones can also help to slow progression. If you train your pet early on, you may be able to brush your pet's teeth on a regular basis as well. There are pet toothpastes available from your vet or pet stores.
Remember, good dental care protects your pet from pain and disease. Maintaining healthy teeth can be as important as having your pet regularly vaccinated.
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