Although your cat or dog is less likely to have cavities than you are, he or she is very vulnerable to periodontal disease. Often referred to simply as “gum disease”, this is caused by bacteria found in dental plaque which builds up into tartar.
Typically, this often results in inflamed gums, loose or broken teeth, and even tooth loss. Ultimately, it can cause heart, liver, and kidney disease by the bacteria getting into your pet’s bloodstream. Periodontal disease is treated with antibiotics and frequent professional cleanings, among other things.
Symptoms of periodontal disease include bad breath, swollen or bleeding gums, pawing at the mouth, difficulty in eating, loose or missing teeth, and weight loss or loss of appetite.
Prevention is the first line of defense against this disease. The key elements are:
At about age one, your puppy or kitten should have a complete dental examination and cleaning, including ultrasonic tooth scaling, polishing, and fluoride treatment.
During the annual cleaning, we’ll show you how to properly brush your pet’s teeth. Then you will be able to play an important role in removing disease-causing dental plaque.
Your pet’s annual cleaning is also an excellent time to review the optimum diet for his or her oral hygiene and the value that chew-bones have for dogs. These products are available through our in-hospital pet pharmacy.
We are committed to the prevention and treatment of periodontal disease in every pet in our care!