PETS NEED DENTAL CARE, TOO

While your pet's "smile" is beautiful to you, a recent study indicated that 85% of dogs and cats over one year have the beginnings of periodontal disease but only 3% of dogs and 1% of cats get treatment. Periodontal disease causes more than just "dog breath." It can lead to increased risk of heart, liver and kidney disease.

"Dental disease is one of the most common disease processes we deal with on a day to day basis," says Morgan MacKay, D.V.M., of New Haven Central Hospital for Veterinary Medicine. "Dental disease starts with plaque formation on the teeth and under the gums from food debris, saliva and bacteria. Most often the first complaint from the owner is halitosis, or bad breath. Unfortunately, at this point dental disease has often advanced to gingivitis and severe periodontal problems. Owners are surprised to learn that the build up of mineralized plaque can lead not only to periodontal disease and tooth loss but can also cause infection, entering the circulation and potentially infecting major organs. This is why we stress annual dental exams and prophylactic dental care in young animals as well as adult animals."

A dental exam should be part of every annual exam. However, if it is not time for your pet's routine exam and you have questions about your pet's dental health, your veterinarian will be happy to perform a dental exam to determine the health of your pet's teeth and gums. If there is evidence of plaque build up, broken or decaying teeth, or periodontal disease, your veterinarian will determine the appropriate treatment options.

Fortunately, you can be proactive in assuring your pet's dental health. Make home dental care a part of your pet's routine. Your veterinary clinic carries toothbrushes and specially formulated toothpaste, mouth rinses and chews, as well as prescription diets that promote dental health. While it's best to start your pet on a routine brushing program at an early age, adult animals can be taught to tolerate brushing – especially when the toothpaste tastes like chicken or fish! Toothpaste formulated for people can cause stomach upset in your pet, so make sure to use a product especially formulated for pets. There are also dental sealants available for home use after a dental procedure to help protect teeth and lengthen the time between cleanings.

It's also important to observe your pet's behavior. Symptoms such as trouble chewing or swallowing, excess drooling, mouth or face pain, or halitosis may all be signs of dental or periodontal (gum) disease and should be brought to the attention of your pet's veterinarian.

Just as with people, your pet's oral health is linked to his overall health. You and your veterinarian can work together to maintain the health of your pet from tooth to toe.

©2005, New Haven Central Hospital for Veterinary Medicine, 1/05