First the good news:

Unlike humans, cats & dogs seldom develop cavities. However, the dog and cat are not without major dental problems! In fact, the most common dental problem that we find in pets is considered far worse than cavities! It is called "Periodontal Disease." This disease affects the gums around the teeth instead of the teeth themselves.

About 75% of all dental problems serious enough to be seen by a veterinarian are the result of periodontal disease. It is the cause of 95% of all cases of "bad breath." In advanced cases, it results in infected, foul-smelling, loose teeth with a massive accumulation of tartar. Often there is a loss of appetite due to painful gums. Signs such as diarrhea, vomiting, and irritability may also be some results of this disease.

Food material, bacteria, and saliva accumulate and adhere to the tooth surface, forming a soft "plaque." This material can be easily removed. However, if plaque is allowed to remain on the teeth it becomes hard and "chalk-like", which is called tartar. The tartar buildup causes erosion of the gums, with subsequent inflammation and infection of the tooth socket. The teeth then become loose, and may even fall out. The gums become reddened, swollen, and bleed easily. Your pet will often salivate excessively from the associated pain.

The buildup of this material allows bacteria to constantly grow in the infected mouth tissue. These bacteria enter the bloodstream through the bleeding gums and can cause problems such as heart valve infections, liver infections, and kidney infections.

Dental disease can be very painful for your pet, and bad mouth odor is unpleasant to you.

Rapid buildup of tartar is primarily due to the acidity of the saliva--not what your pet eats! The more acidic the saliva is the quicker the buildup of plaque.

Follow these tips for good oral hygiene:

1. Feed at least some hard food, which will provide a cleaning action. Prescription Diet t/d® is available for both dogs and cats and can be used as a treat every day.

2. Have teeth examined at least once every year for tartar buildup. Pets vary considerably in the amount of tartar that accumulates.

3. Use a pet dentrifice on a regular basis. We will be happy to recommend what is best for your pet. CET Chews® are available for both dogs and cats. Maxiguard® is a tasteless gel that is accepted well by pets in general. Pet toothpaste is available. Human toothpaste should not be used since it can be toxic if swallowed by cats and dogs.

These recommendations will improve the health of your pet, and reduce the undesirable odor produced by the build up of tartar.

Information provided by Mulnix Animal Cliic