Open Wide!
Did you know that February is National Pet Dental Health Month? This is the time where we recognize our four legged loved ones oral hygiene. While we go to the dentist on a yearly basis, our pets don’t get so much attention. This tartar build up can do more damage than just bad breath. In fact, when you see that plaque, that is a build up that aids in the decay of teeth and it is also a good home to harmful bacteria. This bacteria is being ingested by your pets constantly and settling around the valves of their heart, and in their liver, and kidneys. This is called periodontal disease, which, also, causes the gums to become very inflamed and potentially cause abscesses. Fortunately, there are some things you can do to prevent and treat periodontal disease.
Some simple things you can do to prevent this is to, first, feed them hard food rather than canned food. This will help break down some of the build up. Another is to go out and get a toothbrush from the dollar store and dog/cat friendly toothpaste. Do not use human toothpaste, as it contains fluoride, which is toxic to your pets. Remember, we brush our teeth on a daily basis, and they should as well. In many cases, this is not possible. What do you do if you have a crazy cat that refuses to let you brush their teeth? There are certain treats that you can give both cats and dogs that are clinically proven as to reduce the bad breath and tartar. If you are to go this route, a good brand you may want to try is C.E.T. This is a brand of prescription treats made by Virbac Animal Health. They offer drinking water additives, oral hygiene rinse, mini toothbrush kits, oral hygiene kits, and toothpaste. Even with these, your pet may need a dental prophylaxis, which is when your veterinarian would put them under anesthesia and clean their teeth. This normally includes scraping, cleaning, and polishing the teeth, just like humans get. If their disease has progressed, chances are they will need some extractions.
This February, take a moment and check your pet’s mouth to ensure a healthy, happy pet.
Periodontal disease and severe tartar build up on upper teeth. Picture taken during dental prophylaxis after lower teeth have been scraped and cleared of tartar.