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Your Pet’s Oral Health

pet dental cleaningWhy is Dental Care for My Pet Important?

 

It’s fun being a veterinarian. On any given day, I can see cases that involve diarrhea, itchy skin, coughing, ear infections, bladder infections, tooth decay- and more. So, in one day, I am the equivalent of an internal medicine doctor, dermatologist, ENT and a dentist- and more. All in one day. Lots of folks forget about their pet’s oral health- which is as important for your pet as it is for our own health. You probably go to your dentist each year- and your pet should, too.

Poor oral health in pets can lead to many problems, including bad breath, tooth decay or tooth loss, gum disease, heart and kidney disease and much more. All of these problems can mean shortened life spans and an unhappy pet.

Most veterinarians will grade your pet’s oral health on a scale of Zero to Four based on the following criteria:

Grade Zero: Almost perfect oral health, usually found only in dogs or cats under one year of age.

Grade One: Mild gingivitis and plaque are present. A grade 1 condition is most likely reversible with brushing and appropriate chewing.

Grade Two: Mild to moderate tartar (mineralized plaque and bacteria) and gingivitis are present on multiple teeth. Gingivitis is usually reversible after professional scaling and polishing.

Grade Three: Heavy tartar and periodontal disease with bone loss are present. With grade 3 patients, oral pain is likely. Tooth lesions and fractures may be present under tartar. We typically recommend dental X-rays to fully evaluate bone loss and tooth health.

Grade 4: Your pet is in pain. It is likely affecting their overall well-being, eating habits and demeanor. Multiple extractions are possibly required pending the review of a full-mouth x-ray which would be required.

Common signs of dental disease include the following:

Bleeding from the mouth.

Frequent pawing or rubbing at the face and/or mouth.

Reluctance to eat hard foods—for example, picking it up and then spitting it out.

Bad breath—Most pets have breath that is less than fresh, but if it becomes truly repugnant, similar to the smell of a rotten egg, it’s a sign that periodontal disease has already started

Red, swollen gums and brownish teeth

Depending on the severity of the issue, there are many services and products that can help restore dental health, whether it be a full dental cleaning and polishing, change in diet, water additives, specialty chews or treats and more.  We do recommend routine cleanings for most pets to keep their teeth and gums in the best shape possible.

What is involved in a pets dental cleaning?

During a dental cleaning, plaque and tartar are removed from a pet’s teeth, and the health of the entire mouth (tongue, gums, lips, and teeth) is assessed. A thorough dental cleaning can be accomplished only while the pet is under anesthesia. Anesthesia keeps your pet free of anxiety or pain during the dental procedure and allows your veterinarian to fully inspect the teeth and remove tartar from under the gums.

A dental cleaning may include the following:

Removal of visible plaque and tartar from the teeth

Elimination of plaque and tartar from under the gum

Probing of dental sockets to assess dental disease

Polishing to smooth enamel scratches that may attract bacteria

Dental radiographs (X-rays) to identify potential problems below the gum line

Application of fluoride or a dental sealer

Removal or repair of fractured or infected teeth

Dental charting so progression of dental disease can be monitored over time

Inspection of the lips, tongue, and entire mouth for growths, wounds, or other problems

What can I do to help my pets teeth at home?

Don’t indulge your pet’s sweet tooth since sugar can encourage bacterial growth.

Regularly give your pet an OraVet Chew, Veggie Dent Chew or TVH oral health care chew to help keep tartar and plaque at bay. Not only are dental chews a great way to keep your pet’s teeth clean but is a way fun away to keep your pet entertained for hours. There are many other products on the market, ask your veterinarian which one would be best for your pet. Many chews available through grocery stores or other markets may contain preservatives or other additives which may not be good for your pet.

healthy dog bones and treats to chew onBrush your pet’s teeth on a routine basis, two to three times per week.  Although dental chews are a great, they should not substitute for a good teeth brushing. Purchase a special pet toothpaste & toothbrush, never use human toothpaste since pet’s can not spit or rinse. The key to successful teeth brushing is to start your pet off slowly for your pet to adapt, be gentle and use positive reinforcement. We are always happy to show you how to get your pet started with tooth brushing- just ask us during your next visit!