Feb 19 2009
Doggie Dental Days
Next week, Greta is getting her teeth cleaned at the vet. Coincidentally, February is Pet Dental Health Month, when several veterinary groups, including the The American Veterinary Medicine Association (AVMA) and the American Veterinary Dental Society (AVDS) join together to educate pet owners to the importance of regular care of their pets dental needs.
According to the AVDS, 85% of all adult pets have periodontal disease. Left untreated, harmful bacteria from the oral cavity can spread throughout the bloodstream to infect the heart, lungs, liver and kidneys.
According to the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC), the most common disease in dogs is periodontal disease (gum disease). Just as with people, it is an infection created by a buildup of soft dental plaque around the gums and on teeth surfaces. If the plaque (which comes from food particles, bacteria and debris) accumulates, it can lead to infection in the bone surrounding the teeth. Bad breath is the most common sign of gum disease. Additionally, a dog can be in pain from irritated gums, which can lead to appetite loss. The key to beating gum disease is prevention.
As bacteria grow inside the mouth, the plaque turns to tartar. If not treated, plaque and tartar buildup can result in gingivitis, an inflammation of the gums. An even worse situation would result in periodontal disease. Other severe infections can affect a dog’s heart, liver or kidneys.
The VOHC offers these tips for doggie dental success:
Visit your veterinarian
In addition to a physical examination and medical history, the doctor will examine your pet’s teeth and gums. Recommendations may be made for cleaning, polishing, and other dental care in the hospital, or your veterinarian may suggest a program of home dental care. Some veterinarians will give a ‘dental discount’ during the month of February. So if you have been putting off your pets teeth cleaned, now may be a good time to call your vet. You just might save a few bucks, and add a few years to your pet’s life!
Professional dental care
If your pet already has evidence of periodontal disease, a professional cleaning is in order. Depending on your pet’s age and physical condition, the doctor may request that blood analyses, radiography, or other diagnostic tests be performed to evaluate the heart, liver, and kidneys for coexisting disease before proceeding with general anesthesia.
Once your pet is under anesthesia, accumulated tartar and calculus is removed by ultrasonic and hand scaling. Teeth needing fillings or root canals can be repaired and teeth that are beyond repair can be extracted. Finally the teeth are polished to slow down formation of new plaque, tartar, and calculus. If there is evidence of major bone loss or another serious oral condition, your veterinarian may refer you to a veterinary dental specialist.
Dental care at home
Regular brushing is an important part of any preventive dental program. A special toothbrush and toothpaste for pets are recommended. Your veterinarian can show you the proper way to brush your pet’s teeth. In addition, feeding your pet coarse-textured food may help prevent accumulation of plaque, tartar, and calculus. Ask your veterinarian to advise you as to the best diet for your pet.
Lastly, return to your veterinarian for regular dental checkups every 6 to 18 months, or as recommended.
