It is a shocking statistic: the vast majority of pets (nearly 80 percent) over the age of three have some degree of periodontal disease. Unfortunately, the majority of pet owners are usually unaware of their pets’ suffering. Our South Valley veterinarian wants to raise awareness about how pet dental health is critical to a pet’s overall good health. The fact is, periodontal disease is very painful for pets, and the bacteria that lead to their pain can go on to infect a pet’s vital organs (heart, liver kidneys) if left unchecked. We urge pet owners to take a two-pronged approach to keeping their pets’ teeth healthy: come in for an annual pet dental checkup and learn how to brush your pet’s teeth at home every day.

 

 

Bacteria are the culprits behind all periodontal disease in both humans and animals. After we eat, tiny food particles mix with saliva and bacteria that gather around the gum line to form a film of plaque. This can easily be brushed away each day. Unfortunately for most pets, this plaque is not brushed away, but allowed to continue building up until it hardens into tartar, which can only be removed professionally here in our animal clinic. 

 

Tartar is an excellent breeding ground for more bacteria that cause the gums to become inflamed. If left like this, the bacteria can invade the bone structures and roots of the teeth, leading to tooth loss, excruciating pain and severe bacterial infections. Signs of periodontal disease in pets include very bad breath, swollen and bleeding gums, loose or missing teeth, blood on chew toys and difficulty eating. All, some, or none of these symptoms may be present with pet dental disease.

 

Just as importantly, we will teach you how to care for your pet’s teeth at home. A daily pet dental hygiene regimen is your pet’s first line of defense against dental disease. We can recommend specially-designed pet toothbrushes, toothpastes, dental treats and water bowl additives (if necessary). Pick the same time and place each day and simply start by letting your pet examine the toothbrush while licking a bit of toothpaste off. Praise your pet effusively. After a few days, gently move along to the actual teeth brushing. With a lot of patience, praise and persistence, many pets learn to enjoy this part of their day as a bonding experience—and it helps them stay healthier!