Dental Health is No Laughing Matter!

Dental Health is no laughing matter. Your dog's bad breath might suggest a serious health risk to your their teeth, gums, or internal organs. In honor of February’s National Pet Dental Health Month, we want to educate you about your pet’s dental hygiene and teach you how to effectively maintain a routine at-home dental schedule.

Most bacteria and dental disease occurs below the gum line, where its damage isn’t immediately visible. If left unchecked, advanced periodontal disease could lead to tooth loss and spread throughout the bloodstream causing the infection of other organs. That is why it’s so important to have your pet’s teeth regularly examined and cleaned by your veterinarian. Prevention is the best cure and regular examinations can help detect problems before they cause damage to your pet’s teeth, roots, and other organs.

WHAT IS GUM DISEASE?

Gingivitis is a common and mild form of gum disease where the build-up of plaque around the gum lines causes gum irritation and inflammation. It can be easily remedied by maintaining a regular at-home dental care routine, which includes teeth brushing.

Periodontitis is a more serious and advanced stage of gum disease, causing infection of the gum tissues. In this case, your pet would require an extensive professional dental cleaning by your veterinarian, a process that also requires sedation.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?

Possible warning signs of possible dental disease are: redness or swelling of gums, tenderness around teeth or mouth, loss of appetite, loose or broken teeth, bad breath, extensive drooling, bleeding from the mouth, or discolored teeth. If your pet exhibits any of these signs, contact your veterinarian immediately for an appointment.

HOW CAN I HELP?

The single most important thing you can do to maintain your pet’s dental health is to schedule them for regular dental cleanings once a year. If your pet has a large amount of build-up near the gum line, twice a year dental appointments are recommended. In between professional cleanings some veterinarians recommend starting a weekly at-home teeth brushing routine. *

*Prior to starting an at-home routine, please consult with your veterinarian about best practices. There is always the possibility of over-brushing, which can lead to irritation and possibly infection.

DIY: AT-HOME DENTAL CARE WITH YOUR PET

• Make sure you are using the right tools by purchasing a certified soft-bristled pet toothbrush or plastic finger brush and pet toothpaste. DO NOT use human toothpaste on your pets as they may contain synthetic foaming agents and/or xylitol that could cause severe digestive irritability and in some cases possible death. Check out our blog from last month on the fatal dangers of Xylitol for animals.
• Initially, gradually let your pet smell and taste the toothpaste. Once they become comfortable with the scent, rub some toothpaste on their teeth and gums. Reward their positive behavior with praise and treats until they are comfortable with the process and the tools.
• Once they are comfortable, introduce them to the toothbrush. At first let them lick the toothpaste off the toothbrush. Once they are comfortable, start brushing their teeth in small intervals working up to longer intervals.
• Work fast and focus mostly on the outside of the teeth, where plaque build-up is most likely to occur. Stroke the side of their face to ease them while keeping your brush at a 45-degree angle.
• If you make it fun for you pet, it will be easier to make teeth brushing part of your weekly routine.
• Other methods that effectively work to prevent minor gum disease are rawhide, rubber chew toys, rope toys, and specialty treats. Make sure to consult with your veterinarian prior to giving your pet any of these alternative options.

ABOUT US

Animal Health Center at Veterinary Village is a family-owned state-of-the-art animal hospital located in the heart of Westchester County. We are dedicated to providing the highest quality of care to our patients and are passionate about educating our clients on healthy lifestyles.

We offer all pet related services including dentistry, spaying/neutering, grooming, second opinions, daycare, and more.   To make an appointment with one of our veterinarians please call (914) 941-4904. For more information on our services please visit our website at www.emergencyvet.org.