Download Dental Disease - Delphos Animal Hospital

DENTAL DISEASE
Imagine for a moment what your breath would be like if you went through life without ever brushing
your teeth…yuck! Unfortunately, this scenario is reality for most pets as the majority of dogs and cats
never receive any dental hygiene. By the age of three, over half of all cats and dogs will begin to show
signs of dental disease. The number one health problem diagnosed in senior pets is dental disease as
well.
Symptoms of dental disease in pets can be numerous, but the one that gets the most
attention is “halitosis” or bad breath. Pets with dental disease may have inflamed or bleeding gums,
build-up of yellow-brown tartar, tooth loss, drooling, pain during eating, pawing at the mouth, and
change of chewing or eating habits. Pets with moderate or severe dental disease may even act subdued.
Plaque, a colorless film that contains large amounts of bacteria, is at the root of most
dental problems in pets. Left untreated, plaque hardens and becomes tartar, which forms at the base of
teeth near the gum line. When tartar begins to accumulate, “gingivitis” or inflammation of the gums
results. As the gingivitis progresses, the gums and tissues supporting the teeth are destroyed, leading to
periodontal disease and tooth loss. Overcrowded or misaligned teeth will increase the likelihood of
dental disease as well.
Bacteria associated with dental disease are the most likely cause of bad breath. Oral
bacteria also may enter the blood stream and localize on heart valves and in the liver and kidneys,
resulting in very serious illness for pets.
During a routine physical, your veterinarian will inspect your pet’s mouth and he or she
may recommend dental scaling and polishing or other dental treatment. Your veterinarian also can give
advice on selecting chew toys as well as demonstrate how to brush your pet’s teeth. If possible, pets
should have their teeth brushed daily to guarantee the best dental health. Feed only the food
recommended by your veterinarian and don’t allow your pet to chew on hard objects that may break
teeth.
As in children, preventive dental health for pets should be regular and started at an early
age. Puppies and kittens should have their mouths and teeth handled daily to get them acquainted with
the idea of oral hygiene. Do not expect to brush your pet’s entire mouth on your first attempt, as oral
hygiene is a foreign concept to pets. A slower approach with lots of praise will be more successful.
Gradual introduction of a finger gauze, then a fingerbrush, and finally a small toothbrush and pet
toothpaste is preferred. A tuna-soaked finger gauze can work well for cats who are often more
resistant to the idea of toothbrushing.
Owners of dogs and cats with severe dental disease often overlook the effects of poor oral
health on their pet’s well being. After a dental cleaning and any necessary dental extractions, a quietly
suffering pet with serious dental disease commonly will be rejuvenated.
Please don’t let your pet suffer needlessly from the effects of poor oral hygiene. Provide daily dental
care for your pet and see your veterinarian for regular pet dental check-ups to insure a long and healthy
life.
Delphos Animal Hospital
1825 E. Fifth St.
Delphos, OH 45833