Pet Dental Health
February is National Pet Dental Health Month. Although dental health is important every month, we use February as an excuse to discuss why your pet’s oral health plays a big part in their overall physical health.
Did you know poor dental health can lead to secondary disease?
Studies have shown that dental diseases can lead to heart, lungs and liver problems. We recommend having your pet’s teeth and gums checked at least once a year by your veterinarian for early signs of dental disease.
What is dental disease?
Dental disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a condition in which the gum tissue becomes inflamed. Periodontal disease is associated with gingivitis, or inflammation of the gums. In more severe cases, periodontal disease can cause tooth root abscesses, bone infection of the jaw, or as a disease-induced fracture of the jaw.
What are the signs of dental disease?
- Bad breath
- Broken or loose teeth
- Extra teeth or retained baby teeth
- Teeth that are discolored or covered in tartar
- Abnormal chewing, drooling, or dropping food from the mouth
- Reduced appetite or refusal to eat
- Pain in or around the mouth
- Bleeding from the mouth
- Swelling in the areas surrounding the mouth
How is dental disease treated?
The treatment of periodontal disease is with a thorough dental cleaning while under general anesthesia. Dental radiographs are taken at the time of the procedure to determine the severity of the disease.
Why does my pet need general anesthesia for a dental cleaning?
Without anesthesia, your pet will likely be moving, trying to escape, or even biting because he or she does not understand the benefit of dental procedures. Anesthesia makes it possible to perform the dental procedures with less stress and pain for your pet. In addition, anesthesia allows for a better cleaning because your pet is not moving around and risking injury from the dental equipment. In order to get radiographs, your pet needs to be very still in order to get good images, and this is unlikely without heavy sedation or anesthesia. Although anesthesia will always have risks, it’s safer now than ever and continues to improve so that the risks are very low and are far outweighed by the benefits. Most pets can go home the same day of the procedure, although they might seem a little groggy for the rest of the day.
For more information about the importance of your pet’s dental health, as well as tips and tricks for at home dental care, visit https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare/pet-dental-care” with a picture I have uploaded.