We have a pandemic in our pet dogs and cats all over the world. It is not a virus or other contagious disease but has a profound effect on the health and wellbeing of our precious companions. It is the problem of dental disease which occurs in a large proportion of our dogs and cats over the age of 2 years. Some studies have shown an incidence of over 80% in our domestic pets.
This dental disease starts as a build up of plaque on the teeth, just as it does in the human mouth, and progresses over time to severe gum and bone disease leading to serious infection and loss of teeth. The good news is that early dental disease is treatable and if managed well the more serious dental problems can be avoided. Left untreated the dental disease will lead to irreversible damage and expensive dental surgery.
The consequence of this dental disease is bad breath, gum and bone pain and deep infection in the teeth and jaw bones. Ever had a tooth ache or infected tooth? The consequence of this infection is the potential spread of bacteria through the blood stream to other organs such as the heart and kidneys resulting in serious disease problems.
In the human case there is no better prevention than regular and proper teeth brushing and in some people the need to have a regular scale and polish with a dental hygienist. Regular dental checks are our only way of preventing dental disease. There is no easy way of keeping the teeth clean and avoiding severe dental disease.
Unfortunately, there is no easy way to keep our pet mouths clean either. Tooth brushing is the gold standard for cats and dogs but can be impossible in some pets. We are left with other strategies to maintain good oral health, including regular dental checks, mouth cleaning products, regular dental clean ups etc. Every pet needs a dental plan to suit their circumstances and the vet is the best one to advise on the best approach to take.
Organize a complementary dental health check for your dog or cat. You will not regret it.