A Serious Illness Your Dog May Get from Dirty Teeth
Hi Readers,
Dental disease is one of the most common diseases in dogs. And it's very serious. Neglected dental hygiene can cause infected and painful gums as well as periodontal disease.
Periodontal disease is the most common disease of small animals. Signs of periodontal disease are often not recognized, however, and some pets continue to suffer until all of their teeth have become infected. ������
Preventive dental care is one of the most neglected pet health needs. Yet it's just as important for pets as it is for people. Below are some answers to commonly asked questions about dental care for pets.������
What is Periodontal Disease? ������When food remains on the teeth it forms plaque, which continuously builds on the tooth. If not removed, plaque hardens and becomes what we call calculus. Periodontal disease, called gingivitis in its early stages, is caused by a buildup of plaque and calculus below the gum line. According to Angell Memorial Dental Technician Jennifer Robinson, some 85 percent of dogs and cats over the age of two have some form of periodontal disease. This painful and progressive gum disease causes inflammation and, finally, tooth loss. It can also lead to other serious problems like blocked arteries, heart disease and kidney problems.������
Warning signs include:���
Bad breath
Loose teeth
Gingivitis (inflammation of the gums)
Chattering
Drooling
Lack of appetite
Bleeding gums������
Periodontal disease is painful. Animals cannot brush their own teeth or tell us when they feel pain, so it is up to us to take responsibility for their dental care. If you think your pet may have periodontal disease, schedule an appointment to have your veterinarian perform an oral exam and possibly a good cleaning.
You can also brush your dog's teeth, and you SHOULD, on a regular basis. Brushing your dog's teeth at least 3 times a week helps to remove tartar and plaque.
Until next time,
Dr. Jon
P.S. Remember this great "doggy breath" video? This one will really take you back. I know it did for me! It certainly made me laugh. To check it out, go to www.petproductadvisor.com/kissable or click on the video below.
P.P.S. Our PetPlace.com veterinary team recommends the Kissable Toothbrush to help keep your dog's mouth clean and healthy. The innovative 3-sided design of this toothbrush brushes all 3 sides of the teeth at once, so it's quick and easy. And brushing your dog's teeth could add as much as 5 years to your dog's life! Find out more. Go to: www.petproductadvisor.com/kissable
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Healthy Dog Teeth
Keeping your dog's teeth clean can help keep your dog healthy.
Use a soft toothbrush. Start by offering your dog a taste of the dog toothpaste. The next time, let him taste the toothpaste, then run your finger along the gums of the upper teeth.
Repeat the process with the tooth brush. Get the bristles of the brush along the gum line of the upper back teeth and angle slightly up, so the bristles get under the gum line.
Work from back to front, making small circles along the gum lines. It should take you less than 30 seconds to brush your pet's teeth. Do not try to brush the entire mouth at first.
If all that your pet lets you brush is the outside of the upper teeth, you are still addressing the most important area of periodontal disease - prevention.
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