Imagine how your teeth would look and feel if you didn't brush them daily. The same applies to your pet's teeth. Unless you are regularly providing some form of dental care, you are neglecting an important factor in the overall health of your pet.
Periodontal (gum) disease is one of the most common conditions seen by veterinarians today. The problem begins when plaque and tartar are allowed to build up on your pet's teeth. Plaque harbors the bacteria which can infect gum tissue and the roots of teeth resulting in disease and tooth loss. Besides the negative impact on the oral cavity, bacteria can enter the bloodstream through the large network of blood vessels located near the gums and teeth. Recent studies have documented that certain heart, liver and kidney diseases may be associated with these bacteria.
The first step in promoting oral health is to contact your veterinarian for a thorough oral examination. At this time, it may be necessary to have your pet's teeth cleaned above and below the gum line. Like people, animals need this professional attention on a routine basis. This cleaning will require your pet to be put under anesthesia. Recent advancements in anesthetic techniques and materials have greatly reduced the risks previously associated with this procedure. However, if you have any concerns regarding anesthesia, please discuss them with your veterinarian.
Most veterinarians recommend an oral hygiene program which includes brushing your pet's teeth on a regular basis with a dentifrice specially formulated for animals. Do not use human toothpaste or baking soda. Human tooth pastes are often made with various foaming agents which are intended to be rinsed, not swallowed. Even occasional consumption of these tooth pastes may cause stomach problems. (Most pets cannot be taught to rinse!) The high sodium (salt) level of baking soda may cause problems in some animals, especially whose with a heart condition.
The same preventive techniques recommended for humans, especially routine brushing, are the most effective means of controlling plaque and tartar build-up in animals.
Diet is a major factor in the development of plaque and tartar. Soft or sticky foods may contribute to periodontal disease. Beef hide chews; hard, crunchy foods; biscuits; and chew toys may be helpful, but they are not the entire answer. Only tooth brushing can remove plaque and food debris below the gum line. It is below the gum line where disease-causing bacteria flourish, resulting in irritation, inflammation and infection.
Brushing your pet's teeth is easy and doesn't take much time. The first step is to select a convenient time when you and your pet are both relaxed. For the first few days, simply hold your pet as you normally do when petting him/her. Gently stroke the outside of your pet's cheeks with your finger for a minute or two. After each session, reward your pet with an appropriate treat and lots of praise. For the next few days - after your pet has become comfortable with this activity - place a small amount of an animal dentifrice on your finger and let your pet sample the flavor. Pets like the taste of the dentifrice and will soon consider it a treat. Next, introduce your pet to an animal toothbrush or finger brush. Place a small amount of dentifrice on the brush. Gently raise your pet's upper lip and place the brush against an upper tooth. With a slow circular motion, gently brush only that tooth and the adjoining gum line. Each day gradually increase the number of teeth brushed, but go slowly and do not go beyond your pet's point of comfort. Build up to approximately 30 seconds of brushing per side. And remember, after each session, reward your pet with a treat and lots of praise. If you are having any problems brushing your pet's teeth, contact your veterinarian.
Between four and five months of age, the puppy will start to lose baby teeth. Check the mouth often to make certain that there are no "doubles" (teeth coming in without the previous teeth falling out) present. This does happen occasionally, especially with the four canines. If you cannot wiggle the baby tooth loose yourself, then take the puppy to the veterinarian and have him remove it. This will insure a proper bite when the permanent teeth are in place.
Be patient, proceed slowly and gently. Use plenty of petting and praise. Soon, both you and your pet will look forward to the time you spend together during this important health care procedure.
To view the progression of gingivitis to periodontal disease, click here
Any questions that we can help you with, please feel free to contact us anytime.
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