Dental Care

THE HEART OF ANIMAL HEALTH

Thousands upon thousands of loving pet owners take their pets for regular checkups to the veterinarian. After this annual routine, many feel they have provided the most complete care for their pets. But studies in recent years indicate this is not enough.

Veterinarians have learned that regular dental care is vitally important in ensuring pets' overall health. A mouth full of bacteria can cause serious health problems for pets in addition to tooth loss or painful gum disease, according to the American Veterinary Dental Society.

"Oral infections, if left untreated, may infect other organs such as the heart, liver or kidneys," and "periodontal disease may cause bacteria and toxins to enter the bloodstream, carrying the infection to other parts of the animal's body." 
- Dr. Ellen Logan, president of the AVDS and a senior scientist of oral care with Hill's Pet Nutrition, Inc.

Oral disease is the most frequently diagnosed health problem for pets. An astounding 80% of dogs and 70% of cats show signs of oral disease by age 3. That's why local veterinarians are an integral part of the pet dental health campaign. They play a key role in educating pet owners about the risks their pets face if oral care is not a priority. The growth of bacteria in a dog's or cat's mouth or on the teeth may lead to the formation of plaque and tartar. Plaque and tartar buildup then have the potential to cause periodontal infections that can spread to other organs.

The following steps suggested by veterinarians can put a bite into potential health problems:

Take your pet to your veterinarian for a dental exam. Don't wait for his annual checkup if you suspect a problem.

Begin a dental care regimen at home. Your veterinarian can suggest steps that may include brushing your pet's teeth. One of the most convenient and effective ways to combat oral disease is feeding specially formulated foods proven effective in removing plaque and tartar buildup. The Seal of Acceptance from the Veterinary Oral Health Council, an organization initiated by members of the American Veterinary Dental Society to guide consumers, appears on products that meet defined standards for plaque and tartar control in dogs and cats.

Schedule regular veterinary dental checkups. These are essential in helping your veterinarian monitor the progress of your pet's dental health routine. Please, take dental care to heart. It's one way to ensure good health and vitality for your best friend.

Pets are an important part of our lives for many years. As Such, dental care is important to extend your pet's good health and quality years with you. Dental disease is the most common problem seen in our pet population today. More than 85% of all dogs and cats presented to veterinarians are affected by dental problems. Periodontal disease is what causes bad breath as well as eventual tooth loss.

We recommend daily dental care at home for your pets, just like the rest of the family. It is best to begin home care at an early age (8-12 weeks) during puppy or kitten hood, but it is never too late. Visible tarter should be removed ultrasonically in a process known as scaling and polishing, just like when people go to the dentist. This makes your home care efforts easier and more effective. Always remember to make it fun!

Washcloth, finger brush, or toothbrush (see products available in our hospital)

Pet toothpaste (see products available in our hospital)

Week One

Using your hand, gently open the pet's mouth and run your finger around his or her lips, lifting the lips, etc. This should begin for just 30 seconds on day one and progressing to a couple of minutes by the end of the week. Reward your pets with a small treat at the end of each session (no "People food" please).

This week, use either a wet washcloth wrapped around your index finger, a wet finger brush, or a wet toothbrush on the teeth. Lift lips. Massage the outer surfaces only of the upper and lower teeth using a back and forth motion. Do this for 30 seconds on day one, progressing up to three minutes by the end of the week.

This week use your dental cleaning instrument and now add 3/4 inch of toothpaste. Brush the outer surfaces only of the upper and lower teeth in a back and forth motion. Gradually extend the cleaning time so you can concentrate on each individual tooth.

* Do not rush the process of else your pet may become resistant. For some pets it may take more than one week to get them use to the teeth cleaning.

* Always give them a treat at the end of each session, making it enjoyable.

* If your pet shows any indication of aggression (growling, bearing teeth, biting, scratching, etc.) stop immediately. Call the hospital for further professional advice.

* NEVER use a human toothpaste. Vomiting is common if this is done.

* Cleaning at home will reduce the frequency of professional care needed.

* Won't a Milkbone a day take care of it? NO! If you ate a milkbone a day would you never have to brush your teeth? Of course you would still need to brush. Milkbones help, but they alone cannot do it.

* New treats and diets are now available that contain special enzymes to prevent tartar buildup.