Most of us treat our pets as children. Now would you neglect the teeth of your human child? Hopefully not! The same should go for your beloved fur baby. Animals require proper oral hygiene just like we do.
While tooth decay is less common in animals, our pets can experience many of the same dental problems that we encounter including broken or cracked teeth, cavities, gum disease, infections, misalignment of the teeth or jaw, palate defects, and tumors.
Dental problems in pets can be caused from or be the cause of various health problems. According to veterinary dental experts, three is the common age when dental problems are first recognized. By this age, cats and dogs typically show some signs of periodontal disease.
Periodontal (Gum) Disease
One of the leading dental problems in pets, gum disease is an infection resulting from the buildup of plaque around the gums. The bacteria in plaque can irritate the gums and cause an infection. Plaque that is not removed from the tooth’s surface will harden and turn into tartar, which can only be removed professionally with dental tools.
Periodontal disease manifests in animals the same way it does in humans. Prevention is the key to avoiding it as well as other dental problems. Preventive measures include regular brushing and yearly oral exams by a board-certified veterinarian. Oral infections left untreated can travel to the bloodstream, causing other parts of the body such as the heart or kidneys to become infected.
source:American Veterinary Medical Association
Signs of an oral infection:
- abnormal behavior
- bad breath
- bleeding in the mouth
- broken teeth
- difficulty chewing
- discolored teeth
- excess drooling
- inflammation and swelling
- irritability
- loss of appetite
- pain or whimpering
Note that some pets are good at hiding their ailments making it difficult to tell if they are suffering, so be observant of your pet’s overall demeanor.
Cleaning the Canines
It might sound easier said than done but brushing your pet’s teeth is the first line of defense against dental problems. There are special toothbrushes and toothpastes just for dogs. It’s a given that Fido will prefer chicken or peanut butter flavored toothpaste over mint! Keep in mind that you should never use human toothpaste on pets as it contains ingredients that are highly toxic to them.
With regular brushing comes routine check-ups, where a veterinarian should conduct an oral exam to check the mouth for any problems. If there is excess plaque and tartar, then a professional cleaning will be recommended. Many pet owners gasp at the expense and thought of putting their pooch under anesthesia but rest assured that it’s well worth the cost and totally safe for your pet. Animals cannot grasp the concept of oral health care, so general anesthesia is used to ensure a thorough cleaning while keeping everyone safe.
A healthy diet is an important part of your pet’s oral health regime. Consuming high-quality pet food ensures the mouth is receiving vital nutrients for strong teeth and healthy gums. Dogs can benefit from chew toys, and many are specifically marketed as dental products. Look for products with the VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council) Registered Seal, as they help reduce plaque and tartar.
We hope that you are practicing good oral hygiene with your pets and well as yourself. If you have any questions or concerns regarding human dentistry, call us at 954-344-4488, or complete an online appointment request to schedule your consultation.