Research has shown that 70% of cats and 80% of dogs have signs of dental disease by the age of 2 years.   

Dental disease, also referred to as periodontal disease, is not only a cosmetic problem, but more importantly can cause severe discomfort, infection, tooth decay and bone loss. 

The bacteria in the mouth (most common disease-causing organism is Porphyromonas), can travel through the bloodstream to other organs such as the heart, liver, and kidney and cause life-threatening complications. 

There are four stages of periodontal disease that range from calculus and reddened gums, known as gingivitis that is reversible, to severe infection, gingival recession, and tooth attachment loss and decay known as periodontitis. 

Gingivitis, if left untreated, will progress to periodontitis, which is not reversible.

The good news is that this can all be prevented by proper oral health and hygiene.  The most common clinical signs that indicate your pet may be suffering from dental disease include bad breath, yellow or brown tartar on the teeth, bleeding or reddened gums, pawing or rubbing the face/mouth, difficulty eating or aversion to hard food, lack of grooming, and chattering of the teeth. 
 

The best way to prevent irreversible dental disease and keep your pet’s mouth healthy and pain free is to start with a thorough exam by a veterinarian. 

Your veterinarian will closely examine the gums, teeth and surrounding tissues to help determine the most appropriate treatment.

It is important to remember however, that as many as 40% of disease will not be visible to the eye, since the majority of the tooth sits below the gum line. 

This emphasizes the importance of dental x-rays as a part of every cleaning.  If there is any evidence of dental disease at the initial oral exam, your veterinarian may advise a prophylaxis or cleaning. 

A prophylaxis includes a thorough oral exam under general anesthesia, scaling to remove calculus, full mouth x-rays, polishing and fluoride treatment. 

Additional procedures such as extractions will be discussed after a full oral exam and x-rays have been performed. 

We generally recommend a prophylactic cleaning every year after the age of 2 years, but some patients may require it more or less frequently depending on each individual’s mouth.

Once the teeth are clean, a little dedication at home can go a long way to help maintain healthy teeth and gums.

Things that are typically recommended for at home care include brushing, rinsing solutions or gels, chew toys and special diets. 

If your pet is showing any of the clinical signs mentioned above or you have questions about your pet’s oral hygiene, please schedule an appointment with your veterinarian today.   
        

Provided by Dr. Lindsay Mc Crady DVM of Northbay Animal Hospital-Tampa