Dental Disease

Caring for our teeth and gums has been part of our daily routine for as long as we can remember. We understand that without this daily attention, and without regular visits to the dentist, serious problems with our teeth and gums would eventually result. The same is true for our pets.

Plaque is a colorless film composed of bacteria, proteins, sugars, white blood cells, minerals, and water. It forms naturally and continuously on teeth and gums. Within 24 hours of a professional cleaning even a healthy mouth will show evidence of plaque accumulation. Invisible to the unaided eye for days or weeks, plaque accumulation may lead to mouth odor, pain, infection, and tooth loss. Infection in the mouth can travel to other organs in the body and do permanent damage.

As plaque builds up gums become inflamed. Pockets of infection may form around the roots of the tooth. After mixing with food particles and minerals in saliva some of the plaque will harden as it dries. This hard deposit is called tartar. Eventually the bone and ligament that support the tooth are destroyed and the tooth is lost. The infection around the tooth enters the bloodstream and seeds bacteria to heart valves, kidneys, and other internal organs often causing serious health problems.

Some gum disease and most organ damage due to infection are irreversible but preventable with proper oral care. Have your pet's teeth checked by your veterinarian on a regular basis. If evidence of tartar or gum disease is present your veterinarian will recommend a thorough cleaning and polishing of the teeth. This procedure is done under a safe general anesthetic so the teeth may be cleaned thoroughly, properly, and without discomfort to your pet. Polishing the teeth is not for cosmetic reasons but rather to smooth the surfaces of the teeth so that tartar buildup is slowed in the future. Once the teeth have been professionally cleaned a routine of home care can help keep them in good shape. Toothbrushes and special toothpaste are available for your pet. Never use human toothpaste on a dog or cat. With patience and treats your pet can be trained to enjoy having his or her teeth brushed--ask us how.