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National Dental Month:
February 2012
Visit our COUPONS page to print out February's special offers:
$25 OFF a Non-Anesthetic Dental or
$50 OFF an Anesthetic Dental Prophy!
Periodontal disease is the most common disease of small animals. Signs of periodontal disease are often not recognized, however, and some pets suffer until all of their teeth have become infected.
Preventative dental care is one of the most neglected pet health needs. Yet it's just as important for pets as it is for people. Below are some answers to commonly asked questions about dental care for pets.
What is Periodontal Disease?
When food remains on the teeth it forms plaque, which continuously builds on the tooth and, if not removed, hardens and becomes what we call calculus. Periodontal disease, called gingivitis in its early stages, is caused by a buildup of plaque and calculus below the gum line. About 85 percent of dogs and cats over the age of 2 have some form of periodontal disease! This painful and progressive gum disease causes inflammation and, finally, tooth loss.
Warning signs include
Periodontal disease is painful. Animals cannot speak, so it is up to us to take responsibility for their care. If you think your pet may have periodontal disease, schedule an appointment to have one of our veterinarians perform an oral exam. He or she may inform you that you need to schedule a dental cleaning.
What happens in the dental exam?
A dental exam and cleaning (called a dental prophy) is the standard treatment for periodontal disease. This includes manual and ultrasonic removal of plaque above and below the gum line, and extractions if needed. Polishing and fluoride treatment will follow.
A dental prophy can alleviate your pet's discomfort and yearly oral exams should be performed to diagnose and treat dental problems in their early stages. Good home care is also essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Most important, you should brush your dog's teeth daily.
Brookside Animal Hospital is also proud of to offer the option of Non-Anesthetic dental cleanings. This is a terrific option for pet owners who are hesitant to put their pet under anesthesia, or if a routine cleaning is all your pet needs. Please visit our Non-Anesthetic dental page or call the office for more information and to see if your pet is eligible!
When should I start brushing my pet's teeth?
The younger your pet is when he's introduced to tooth brushing, the more easily he will accept the procedure. Ideally, you should begin brushing when your puppy is 8-12 weeks old. But, like any good habit, it's never too late to start!
Immediately following your pet's dental cleaning, you should begin brushing his teeth every day. This is important not only because tartar begins to build six to eight hours after a meal, but because it gets your pet into a daily routine.
It should not take longer than 30 seconds each day. A reward such as a dog cookie, is a great idea. Your pet will remember this treat more than the actual brushing. Remember, never use human toothpaste or baking soda on your pet's teeth.
In addition, we offer a variety of pet-friendly dental chews at Brookside Animal Hospital to help clean teeth and freshen breath! C.E.T. and C.E.T. HEXtra chews can be given once daily to help control plaque and tartar - and your pet will love them too!
Why do my dog's gums look red?
Some dogs develop red tissue around their gums that seems to grow over the tooth. Usually the tooth enamel under this red tissue is eroded and can be filled once the tissue is removed. If, however, the enamel has eroded to expose the tooth's pulp (nerve and blood supply), the tooth cannot be filled and must be extracted, since it causes pain for the animal. We do not yet know why this enamel erosion occurs, but weekly use of fluoride on the teeth may help prevent the lesions.
My pet eats only dry food and plenty of dog biscuits. Do I still need to brush his teeth?
A hard, dry diet will help keep the crowns or the teeth clean, but not below the gumline. Dog biscuits and chews such as C.E.T. chews will help to remove some plaque, but again, they cannot clean below the gum-line and will not prevent periodontal disease. While feeding these foods and treats is good for your pet's teeth, it is no substitute for daily brushing. :)
Brookside Animal Hospital is conveniently located on the Northwest corner
of Coral Springs Drive and Wiles Road in the Publix Brookside Square Plaza.
10625 Wiles Road, Coral Springs, FL 33076
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