The dental proverb, “Be true to your teeth or they will be false to you,” is true for pets, as well as humans. Since dentures for dogs and cats aren’t an option –proper dental care is essential for your pet’s health and well-being. Pets need to maintain strong, healthy teeth for more than chewing…grooming, picking up a ball, catching a frisbee, fetching a stick, or capturing a catnip mouse all requires healthy teeth. More importantly, untreated dental disease can be life threatening. Bacteria from tooth decay and gum disease can enter your pet’s bloodstream and result in infection in the heart, kidneys, and other parts of the body. It is estimated that 85% - 90% of all dogs and cats over the age of three years old suffer from some degree of tooth decay and gum disease. As in humans, deposits of plaque
(an accumulation of dead cells, saliva and bacteria) build up on your pet’s teeth. When it remains on the teeth, plaque hardens and turns into tartar, which causes inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) and breaks down ligaments that connect the teeth with bone and gum tissue (periodontitis). Early and proper prophylactic teeth cleanings prevent these problems.
While
under anesthesia, your pet’s teeth are scaled (removing plaque and tartar) and then they are polished. Particular attention is paid to the area beneath the gum line, where “hidden” problems arise. Following the procedure, home dental care is vital in order to prevent plaque and tartar from recurring. Many dental care products are available and we will be happy to advise you regarding the best follow-up care for your pet.