Proper dental care can detect dental disease that not only affects the mouth, but can also lead to more serious health problems such as heart, lung, and kidney disease. Good dental hygiene is just as important for pets as it is for humans. Yet, it is one of the most overlooked areas in pet health. Studies by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) reveal that nearly two-thirds of pet owners do not provide the dental care recommended by veterinarians. AAHA’s Dental Care Guidelines for Dogs and Cats are a working framework for small animal dentistry practice, including dental examinations, cleanings, and surgical procedures. Every year we offer free dental exams for our clients, please watch our Facebook page for those type of events by following this link: https://www.facebook.com/CountyAnimalClinic
BEFORE A DENTAL CLEANING.
AND AFTER
There are 4 stages of periodontal disease:
Stage 1 - Gingivitis; the gums at the top of your pet's teeth are swollen, inflamed and plaque covers the tooth. A dental cleaning can reverse this condition.
Stage 2 - Early Periodontitis; the entire attached gum is swollen, and inflamed. Your pet's mouth will be painful, and you will notice bad breath. A dental cleaning and at home dental may help this from becoming irreversible.
Stage 3 - Moderate Periodontitis; the gums are becoming destroyed by the infection. There is now bleeding and the gums are now bright red. Your pet's mouth is sore. You will notice a change in his behavior because of the pain. There is consistent bad breath, and this may be a non reversible stage, as peridontitis has now begun.
Stage 4 - Advanced Periodontitis; persistent bacterial infection is now destroying your pets gums, teeth, and bone. Kidney, liver, and heart damage can occur now because the bacteria may be spreading to the bloodstream throughout his body.