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Dental Care for Cats and Dogs

One half of all dogs and cats suffer from dental disease. Many pet owners are not aware that they should be caring for their pets teeth by brushing or using oral rinses as prevention. The most common problem is plaque. Plaque which is formed by food particles, bacteria, and saliva is a colorless film that forms on the teeth. If not removed it hardens into calculus. As calculus builds up it causes gums to recede and can form bacteria filled pockets. This bacteria can infect the gum tissue, tooth roots, and even the bone that secures the teeth to the jaw. Bacteria can be carried throughout the body, which can weaken the heart, liver, and kidneys making your pet more susceptible to disease.

Healthy gums are pink and adhere tightly to teeth that are white, smooth and odorless. Diseased gums are thickened, red, bleed easily and are attached to teeth that appear rough, brown or green and have a foul odor.

Treatment for most pets with dental disease is having your veterinarian scale and polish the pet's teeth. This must be done under general anesthesia and will remove calculus at and below the gum line. Home dental care is one of rthe most important steps in preventing dental disease in pets. This includes feeding a proper diet and brushing your pets teeth. Dry, crunchy foods will stimulate the gums and help clean the exposed surfaces of the teeth.

Home dental care kits include pet toothpaste and brushes. With patience and positive rewards, most pets will allow teeth brushing. Some, however, will only tolerate rinsing with an oral cleansing liquid or a gum massage with a cotton ball. Never use human toothpaste in a pet's mouth since this is designed to be spit out and not swallowed and will make your pet sick.

Studies have proven that proper dental care can extend the life of your pet. If you have any questions about how to get started or what to use in an animals mouth, please contact your local veterinarian.

Article written by Dr. Maren Troum, June 13, 2002