One of the most overlooked aspects of preventive health maintenance is dental care.  Problems with teeth can affect the health of dogs and cats.  Many of these dental problems are very slow in onset.  Reluctance to eat, odor from the mouth, loss of energy and less of a desire to play, are a few of the signs that may point to dental disease.

How periodontal disease occurs

                Periodontal disease is the most common cause of dental problems.  It starts as bacterial growth on the surface of the tooth and the tissues around the teeth.  The bacteria produce toxins that injure this tissue.  As periodontal disease progresses, bacteria enter deeper into the soft tissue and destruction of the connective tissue begins.  This will appear as a reddened and somewhat swollen gum at the base of the tooth.

                As tissue loss continues, the pocket deepens and a hard calcium deposit called calculus forms under the gum tissue.  The bone holding the tooth in place recedes as the inflammatory process progresses.  Serious problems occur at this time, resulting in a destruction of the supporting structures around the tooth, making the tooth loose and painful.  This gingival infection results in a discharge fo debris, organisms, and toxins into the blood stream, possibly creating infections in the liver, heart, and kidneys.  These infections may result in fatal disease processes.

  Signs and Treatment

                If calculus, pain, odor or redness around the gums appear, your pet’s teeth should be examined.  Should the teeth already be damaged, good professional care, followed up by good home care, reduce the likelihood of more severe problems. 

  Home Care is Crucial

                Extensive dental care is only beneficial if you follow up with good home care.  It is very important to discuss honestly with your veterinarian to formulate a program that’s right for you and your pet.  Prevention of dental problems and care of the teeth begins at home by training your pet to accept teeth cleaning.  Establish a routine of brushing your pet’s teeth with a washcloth or using one of the currently available products.  When brushing, use a circular motion with the stroke emphasized away from the gum tissue. 

                Your pet’s teeth should be brushed daily.  At first, do not use any cleaning agents; just get your pet used to the idea.  You many need to work up to cleaning the entire mouth over several weeks.  The most important factor is the mechanical removal of the bacterial film that coats the teeth.  Ina  pet without periodontal disease, a daily brushing with toothbrush and water will remove accumulated bacteria.

                In order to get your pet used to the idea of brushing or scrubbing, use a beef or chicken broth solution, or water with a slight amount of garlic powder added.  If you can’t brush your dog’s teeth at home, please let us know, we are here to help.  Fluoride gels have been shown to be effective in plaque prevention if used on a regular basis.  These are used by placing a small drop on a toothbrush or the finger brush and brushing or scrubbing the teeth.  As it is a very concentrated solution, only a small amount need be used (about the size of a pea.)  The application of the gel will help control plaque, which leads to calculus formation, as well as to help desensitize the tissue.  (Although rare, signs of fluoride toxicity include vomiting, diarrhea, depression and incoordination.  If any of these symptoms occur, discontinue use and call our office.)

                The treats you feed your pet can also play a part in good dental health. C.E.T. Chews are available though your veterinarian and use an enzyme to provide a more effective means of removing tartar than ordinary biscuits.