YUCK!
We’ve heard it all before. Brush your teeth twice a day. Floss everyday. No sweets after bedtime.
These are some of the things we can do to take good care of our teeth. But did you know that dental care is also something we should consider for our pets, dogs specifically? That bad odor could be due to a disease process in the mouth.
Periodontal disease can independently affect both pet and owner and this month’s article has information for both.
Periodontal Disease
This refers to infection associated with the inflammation of the periodontium, which is the collective name for the tissues surrounding each tooth (gums, cementum, ligaments and bone. In dogs, this disease process can be classified into 4 stages which begin as treatable, reversible conditions but become progressively damaging and irreversible. Over 2/3 of dogs 3 years and older are believed to suffer from Periodontal Disease. In humans, it is the most common oral condition and main cause of tooth loss.
The chart below explains each stage in dogs.
The culprit? Plaque, a biofilm mixture of food, bacteria and saliva. That pesky plaque builds up on the tooth surfaces causing inflammation of the gums (reddening, pain, swelling in this instance termed gingivitis). This progresses until the bone becomes affected and infection spreads via the bloodstream through the animal’s body. Untreated cases can result in inability to chew (leading to tooth and weight loss) and infections of the liver, kidneys and heart, which are difficult to treat.
Dr. Chelsi-Rae Harrison gives us some insight on the disease in humans. “Bacteria in the mouth form plaque on the teeth. Insufficient removal of plaque by brushing and flossing results in tartar formation. The toxins from the bacteria continue to form on the tartar. As a result, the body’s immune response to this bacterial growth causes inflammation in the gum tissues. Over time, where the gums meet the root of the teeth, pockets will form. These periodontal pockets are now the perfect area for more bacteria to congregate, multiply and release more harmful toxins which will then damage the gums, teeth, and supporting bone structures.”
So you see, both you and your pet are at risk. Just as with humans, dental examinations and dental radiographs will allow the veterinarian to evaluate the health of the teeth and arrive at the right diagnosis and best treatment plan.
How will you know your dog is suffering from Periodontal Disease?
Bad breath
Reddened or bleeding gums
Difficulty eating
Yellow or brown depositions on the teeth (tartar)
Shaky teeth
(Symptoms similar in humans)
How can I stop this?
Dentopia Kingston Office
With the right care, you can prevent your dog from developing periodontitis:
Do not feed hard substances eg bones
Give specially formulated diets and/or treats proven to prevent plaque build up
Use doggie toothpaste to brush their teeth daily
Schedule routine dental cleanings or checkups at least annually
Always ask your veterinarian when something is wrong
In addition, Dr. Harrison recommends for human patients to brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush at least twice per day, use a fluoridated toothpaste, floss at least once per day and be consistent with dental visits and home care. She also advises persons to be guided by their dentist’s recommendation for the management of periodontal disease. Some factors that can increase the accumulation of bacteria and increases the risk of periodontal disease are poor oral hygiene, stress, tooth position, smoking, diabetes and underlying immunodeficiencies.
For dogs factors include similar underlying conditions so general health and care is very important in preventing this disease.
Both you and your pet are now armed with the information for proper oral care. Remember, your pet is a member of your family, so your care for them should be important to you.
Happy Pet-Parenting !
Dr. Simone M. Johnally Dr. Chelsi-Rae Harrison
Veterinarian Associate Dentist
Dr. Simone M. Johnally Veterinary Services Restorative Dental
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