ORAL & DENTAL HEALTH CARE
 

Why worry about teeth?

Plaque and tartar can cause significant oral and dental disease.  The establishment and accumulation of plaque and tartar allows inappropriate numbers of bacteria to grow in the mouth.  This can cause damage to both the teeth and gums and also to more distant parts of the body such as the heart and kidneys.  Dental disease can also cause your pet significant pain and discomfort.

What are the signs that indicate my pet's mouth needs special attention?

• bad breath
• sore, red painful gums
• decreased appetite or difficulty eating
• broken teeth
• unusual lump or bumps in the mouth

A proper dental care program starts with an oral exam.  An exam allows the veterinarian to identify areas of concern and make recommendations.  While dental disease and gingivitis are common, other diseases can occur in the mouth.  Tumors and masses can arise and pets can develop oral cancer.  An oral exam should be performed prior to beginning a home care program to ensure that there are no pre-existing conditions that would make a home care program uncomfortable for your pet.  Once it has been determined that you and your pet are ready to start with home care, your veterinary team can help you determine which options are best for your pet. 

A professional dental cleaning may be needed to properly remove plaque and tartar restoring your pet’s dental health.

Plaque is the soft film that forms on teeth.  Plaque is made up of food and other debris and provides bacteria with a place to grow.  If not removed, plaque can harden and become tartar. 

Tartar, or dental calculus, is the brown material you may notice staining your pet’s teeth. 

DENTAL HOME CARE

Tooth Brushing
Tooth brushing is the single most effective tool in maintaining dental health and preventing dental disease.  Both cats and dogs benefit from having their teeth brushed.  Special non-foaming toothpaste has been formulated that is flavoured to increase acceptance by pets.  Several varieties of toothbrushes exist including rubber finger brushes and brushes with ultra soft bristles.  Introducing your pet to tooth brushing should be done gradually.  Ask us for a demonstration of proper brushing techniques and tips to help make the process easier for you and your pet.  Make sure that your pet receives an oral exam before beginning to brush their teeth for the first time.  Brushing sore or diseased teeth and gums can be painful for your pet!

Dental rinses, gels and water additives
There are many dental rinses, gels and water additives available for cats and dogs.  The goal of these products may be to delay tartar formation, reduce halitosis (bad breath) and/or generally improve the condition of the pet’s mouth.  Talk to us about which of these products may be beneficial to your pet.

Dental Chews
There are also multiple chew products available.  These products are designed to be chewed by the pet.  The abrasive action of the chewing contributes to helping remove plaque and tartar.  Care must be taken to consider your pet’s chewing habits, some chews are hard enough to cause tooth fractures, and some may cause stomach upset or intestinal blockage when swallowed.

Dental Treats
Dental treats are food items designed to be eaten by pets.  The chewing action helps to reduce plaque and tartar.  Beware; these treats may be high in calories!

Dental Diets
Specifically designed diets are made with your pet’s dental health in mind.  These foods are usually larger kibbles that require more chewing than a regular kibble.  Some foods are also coated with products that slow calculus formation.