Preventative Dental Care In Pets

January 2006

Your Pet Will Thank You With Every Smile!

 

Pets Need Dental Care Too!

 


Causes of Periodontal disease

Plaque is a colorless film that contains large amounts of bacteria. If left unchecked, it builds up, creating infection, destroying the gums and resulting in the loss of tissue and bone that support the teeth. Preventative oral care can reduce the formation of plaque and help maintain proper oral health throughout your pets life.

Signs of Periodontal Disease

All pets are at risk for developing dental problems. Once your pet displays any of the warning signs below, serious periodontal disease may be present. Don’t wait for these signs to develop. Start a preventative program of veterinary supervised dental care today.
 

 

Signs of Periodontal disease include the following

 

1. Bad breath.

2. Yellow-brown crust on the teeth.

3. Bleeding gums.

4. Going to the food bowel but not eating.

5. Change of chewing or eating habits.

6. Loss of teeth.

7. Subdued Behavior.

8. Abnormal Drooling.

9. Dropping of food out of the mouth.

10. Swallowing food whole.

 

Pet Dental Facts

 

- More than 85% of dogs and cats over 4 years old have some form of periodontal disease.

- Only 1 out of 10 owners make sure their pets teeth are cared for.

- Left undisturbed, plaque can mineralize, or harden in less than two days forming tartar.

- If left unchecked, bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and travel to the major organs causing infections and seriously compromising the health of your pet.

- Preventing periodontal disease can result in a longer, healthier life for your pet.

 

The Four Stages of Periodontal Disease
 

Stage #1 Periodontal Disease

Stage #1

 

Stage #2 Periodontal Disease

Stage #2

 

Stage #3 Periodontal Disease

Stage #3

 

Stage #4 Periodontal Disease

Stage #4

 

Steps To Better Oral Care


1. Visit your veterinarian:

Every examination in our clinic includes a thorough dental exam. If we find signs of disease or tartar buildup, a complete dental cleaning may be necessary. It is important for the overall health of your pet that we take care of any dental Home Dental Care Is Critical To Your Pet's Dental Health!problems we find.
 

2. Start An Oral Care Routine At Home.

Brushing your pet’s teeth properly each day will remove plaque buildup. In addition, you can feed your pet specially formulated foods that can help reduce the accumulation of plaque and tartar from the teeth.

3. Schedule Regular Dental Checkups.

We monitor the progress of your pet’s preventative program, so regular preventative checkups are essential. For pets that form tartar quickly, or those that with a history of oral problems, frequent examinations and cleanings may be advised.

 

Home Care Products For Cats And Dogs


- Toothbrushes and finger brushes designed for your cat or dog’s mouth help remove plaque and dislodge food particles. Remember to use pet toothpaste. It is contains enzymes to prevent plaque from forming.

- Enzadent Oral Rinse contains0.12% chlorhexidine that helps control bacteria and plaque while freshening the breath.

- Enzadent Rawhide Chews contain enzymes that help break down tartar on teeth.

- Hills Prescription Diet T/D pet food is specially formulated to ensure your pet receives good oral care every day.


 

Although this bulletin provides basic information about Periodontal Disease, your veterinarian is always your best source of health information. Consult your veterinarian for more information about Periodontal Disease and its prevention.

 

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