dental care
Dental Disease: The Most Common Condition Encountered by Veterinarians.
Did you know that 70-80% of pets over the age of three suffer from dental disease?
Dental disease is a serious yet often underestimated threat to your pet's comfort and well-being. Because it frequently presents with subtle signs, the best way to catch it early is through regular wellness examinations. While daily brushing is essential and recommended, it can't keep all teeth completely clean over time. Just like humans, animals need an annual comprehensive oral health assessment, along with a tailored treatment and prevention plan. Following the examination, we may suggest a dental treatment schedule, home care, or advanced interventions based on your pet’s dental health needs.
How Can I Determine If My Pet Has Dental Disease?
Regularly inspecting your pet’s mouth is crucial. Look for signs such as red or inflamed gums, bad breath, pus at the gum line, or broken teeth—if you notice any of these, schedule an appointment with us immediately. Remember, cats have 30 adult teeth and dogs have 42, so merely checking the front teeth won't give a complete assessment, as more severe gum diseases often affect the molars located at the back of the mouth.
Signs & Symptoms of Dental Disease
- Unpleasant breath
- Yellow, brown, or discolored teeth
- Red, inflamed gums
- Changes in eating habits
- Painful mouth—may growl or snarl if the mouth or head is touched
- Swollen mouth, jaws, or gums
- Excessive drooling
- Reluctance to chew on toys
- Dropping food while eating
- Weight loss
- Decreased grooming, especially in cats
- “Chattering” teeth, particularly when eating
Do Cats and Dogs Experience Pain Like We Do?
Many pet owners report no noticeable changes in their animal's behavior, leading them to believe their pets are fine. This is not unusual. Our pets are descendants of wild animals, which do not benefit from displaying signs of illness or avoiding food due to dental pain. Most animals tend to remain stoic in the face of chronic pain. However, if you've ever experienced a chronic toothache, you understand the reality of pain. Research indicates that dogs and cats have pain thresholds nearly identical to those of humans.
How Do Bad Teeth Affect the Rest of the Body?
Infected gums and teeth extend beyond oral issues—infected teeth or gums can release bacteria into your pet’s bloodstream. These bacteria can settle on heart valves and infiltrate the kidneys or liver, leading to infections. The ongoing presence of oral infections puts stress on the immune system, making the body more vulnerable to other diseases. The mouth truly reflects your companion’s overall health. With consistent dental care, you can help prevent these serious consequences.
Is Dental Home Care Necessary?
Immediately following a professional dental cleaning, the surfaces of the teeth should feel smooth and clean, much like after your own dental appointment. However, within hours (not days, weeks, or months), plaque begins to accumulate on those freshly cleaned surfaces. Just as your teeth can feel fuzzy in the morning after a night’s sleep, your pet's teeth experience the same rapid buildup. Both bacteria and plaque form a “slime layer,” so daily brushing is the most effective way to remove that layer and prevent tartar and periodontal disease.
