SIMPLE GUIDE TO DENTAL CARE
PETS HAVE TEETH TOO
IF YOUR PETS COULD DO THIS.....THEY WOULDN'T NEED YOUR HELP TO MAINTAIN THEIR ORAL HEALTH
WHY YOU SHOULD BRUSH YOUR PETS TEETH
Pets tend not to get cavities because of the cone shape and smooth surface of their teeth. When you do not brush your pet’s teeth they start to accumulate plaque and tartar. As plaque and tartar build, the once smooth surfaced teeth become rough, which in turn attracts more plaque and tartar. This pretty much wipes out their natural inherited ability to stay cavity free.
The plaque and tartar found on the teeth can cause an array of problems. Gingivitis (inflamed gums) is the first sign that your pet’s mouth is not being cared for properly. Brushing once a day will reverse gingivitis. If left uncared for, gingivitis will progress to Periodontal Disease. Periodontal Disease can only be arrested if the animal’s mouth is brought back to health and a cleaning regiment is put in place. Periodontal Disease is not reversible and if left untreated will erode the tissue and bone which secure your pet’s teeth, eventually leading to tooth loss, difficulty eating and digestive problems.
In addition to pain, bad breath and tooth loss, your pet’s immune system is constantly being challenged as the bacteria enters their bloodstream through swollen and bleeding gums.
WARNING SIGNS THAT INDICATE PERIODONTAL DISEASE IS ALREADY UNDERWAY
1. BAD BREATH
2. RED OR INFLAMED GUMS
3. YELLOW/BROWN FILM AT GUM LINE
4. BLEEDING GUMS
5. LOOSE TEETH
6. BROKEN TEETH
7. MISSING TEETH
8. LETHARGY
9. PAWING AT THE MOUTH
10. UNUSUAL DROOLING
IT IS IMPORTANT FOR OWNERS TO KNOW THAT THEIR PET MAY BE EXPERIENCING CHRONIC ON-GOING PAIN WITHOUT SHOWING ANY SIGNS
WHAT TO DO TO KEEP YOUR PETS MOUTH HEALTHY
1. Simply brush your pet’s teeth once a day (although this is ideal, even brushing 2-3 times a week will make a difference in your pet’s oral health)
2. Have your pet’s mouth checked annually.
PRODUCTS AVAILABLE TO CARE FOR YOUR PETS TEETH
TOOTHBRUSHES – A variety of toothbrushes are available through your veterinarian. They include shorter handles, longer handles and even finger brushes, which can be slipped on your index finger. A washcloth or gauze wrapped around your finger will also do the trick. Ordinary toothbrushes from the drugstore are fine to use as well; we recommend soft bristles.
TOOTHPASTE – People toothpaste is not recommended for brushing your pet’s teeth as it can really upset their stomach. Just using water is ok but some animals will not co-operate because of the taste. Flavoured pet toothpastes (chicken, beef and malt) are available through your veterinarian to add a pleasant taste to the whole experience.
RINSES – Rinses are also available through your veterinarian. They can be used to help maintain the overall health and smell of your pet’s mouth.
SPECIAL FOOD – There are special diets available through your veterinarian that have been specifically designed to help reduce the build up on your pets teeth.
KEEP YOUR PET SMILING
Chippawa Animal Hospital is a veterinary hospital in Niagara serving cats and dogs since 1991.
We offer the following veterinary services: free puppy classes to our clients, acupuncture, cat & dog general surgery, dentistry, wellness treatment and prevention, perscription diets and housecalls. Our medical centre employs 1 vet, 2 receptionists/assistants, 2 Registered Veterinary Technicians and 1 Veterinary Hospital Manager.