In the realm of pet health, dental care often takes a backseat. However, the significance of maintaining good oral hygiene in our pets cannot be overstressed. Neglecting dental health can lead to severe consequences, which can affect more than just their mouths. In this comprehensive guide on the importance of dental care in pets, we turn to the expertise of Dr. Cynthia Maro, a distinguished veterinarian based in Pittsburgh, with over three decades of experience in veterinary medicine. Dr. Maro’s journey began on a farm, assisting vets and caring for a diverse array of animals. Her profound commitment to improving pet health and her innovative approaches in veterinary practice make her insights invaluable. As the founder of several successful animal hospitals and a contributor to the field through various roles, Dr. Cynthia Maro’s perspective is rooted in extensive practical experience and a deep passion for animal welfare. Let’s explore the critical role that dental health plays in the overall wellness of pets, guided by the knowledge and experience of Dr. Cynthia Maro.
The Prevalence and Impact of Dental Diseases in Pets
Dental diseases, particularly periodontal disease, are exceedingly common in pets, affecting the majority of dogs and cats by the age of three. This condition begins with the buildup of plaque on the teeth, which hardens into tartar. If not removed, this can lead to gingivitis, characterized by inflamed gums. Left untreated, this progresses to periodontitis, where the infection spreads to the structures supporting the teeth, often resulting in tooth loss, severe pain, and systemic infections.
Systemic Effects of Poor Dental Health
The implications of poor dental health extend far beyond the mouth. The bacteria from dental infections can enter the bloodstream, potentially damaging vital organs. Conditions directly linked to poor dental health include:
- Heart Disease: Bacteria can settle on the valves of the heart, leading to endocarditis.
- Kidney Disease: The kidneys filter out harmful bacteria, but over time, this impairs their function.
- Liver Disease: The liver and gallbladder can become infected or inflamed as they attempt to manage bacteria and toxins from dental infections.
Recognizing Dental Problems in Pets
Early detection of dental problems can prevent more severe health issues. Signs that your pet may be suffering from dental disease include:
- Persistent bad breath.
- Difficulty chewing or dropping food.
- Bleeding, inflamed, or receding gums.
- Loose or missing teeth.
- Behavioral changes, such as irritability or lethargy.
Preventive Dental Care
Preventive care is crucial in maintaining your pet’s dental health. Here are some key strategies:
- Daily Brushing: Brushing your pet’s teeth daily with pet-formulated enzymatic toothpaste is a key component of maintaining oral hygiene.
- Dental Diets and Chews: Certain diets and chews are designed to reduce plaque and tartar buildup.
- Regular Veterinary Check-ups: Include dental examinations in your pet’s routine veterinary visits. Your vet can spot early signs of dental issues and recommend professional cleanings if necessary.
- Water Additives: Supportive pre and probiotics for oral use are available to maintain the healthy biome which supports dental health.
Professional Dental Cleaning
Veterinary dental cleanings, performed under anesthesia, involve scaling (to remove tartar) and polishing. This process is critical for managing tartar buildup that can’t be addressed with brushing alone. Even when you don’t see an infected root, infections below the gum line can be lurking, be sure to get dental x-rays to assure your pet doesn’t have an abscessed root tip lurking.
The Process of Professional Dental Cleaning
The procedure involves several steps:
- Pre-anesthetic Assessment: Ensuring the pet is healthy enough for anesthesia.
- Anesthesia: Essential for a thorough cleaning and to minimize stress and pain.
- Scaling and Polishing: Removes plaque and tartar, both above and below the gum line.
- Dental X-rays: Identifies issues beneath the gum line, like root abscesses, fractured teeth, or retained teeth.
- Extractions or Other Dental Work: If necessary, based on the findings.
Nutritional Considerations
Nutrition also plays a significant role in dental health. Diets formulated to promote dental health can significantly help with reducing the risk of plaque and tartar buildup. These diets typically have larger kibble sizes or a specific texture that helps mechanically clean the surface of the teeth.
Pets with dental disease are often deficient in tissue calcium. Some pets can benefit from the addition of raw bones, eggshells or mineral supplements containing Magnesium and Calcium.
Home Care Tips
In addition to regular brushing, there are other ways to promote dental health at home:
- Water Additives: Special additives can help reduce plaque and freshen breath.
- Probiotics
- Dental Toys: Many toys are designed to help clean teeth as pets chew on them.
- Mouth Inspections: Regularly check your pet’s mouth for any signs of redness or bleeding gums, irregular bumps, discolored or broken teeth, or excess tartar.
The Role of Genetics and Breed
Some breeds are more predisposed to dental issues. Small breeds and brachycephalic breeds (like Bulldogs and Pugs) often have crowded teeth, leading to increased plaque and tartar build-up. Regular dental care is even more crucial for these breeds.
Dental care is a vital component of any pet’s overall health regimen. By understanding the importance of oral health and taking proactive steps to maintain it, pet owners can significantly enhance the quality of life and longevity of their furry companions. Regular veterinary check-ups, proper home care, and awareness of dental health are key to preventing serious health issues linked to poor dental hygiene.
For personalized advice and treatment, always first consult your veterinarian. They can provide tailored recommendations based on your pet’s personal needs and health status.
Author
Dr. Cynthia Maro – Integrative Veterinarian, Cynthia Maro, DVM, CVA, CAC, VMRT, VNAET