Bad breath is NOT normal – it’s a sign of disease!
Did you know dental disease is the most common infectious disease in dogs and cats? In fact, about 80% of dogs and caats over the age of four have s ome form of periodontal or dental disease. The most obvious sign of dental disease is bad breath. The accumulation of plaque, tartar, and bacteria on the teeth surfaces lead to infection and inflammation of the gums. Left untreated, this will progress to irreversible periodontal disease, which results in pain and eventual tooth loss.
Infection around the tooth causes bacteria to spread through the body via the bloodstream and may damage the kidneys, liver, and heart, thereby shortening your pet’s life.
Signs of Dental Disease
- behavior changes
- abnormal drooling
- pawing at the mouth
- persistent bad breath
- loose or missing teeth
- red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- sneezing and nasal discharge
- difficulty eating or loss of appetite
- tan-brown tartar near the gum line
Home Dental Care
- Use pet specific toothpastes, NEVER human products
- Train your pet to tolerate brushing
- Start with gauze wrapped around your finger. Rub gently across the teeth while your pet becomes accustomed to the sensation. You may then move on to pet toothbrushes, if preferred.
Professional Dental Cleaning & Treatment
More advanced stages of dental disease require professional dental treatment. Under general anesthesia, a trained expert removes plaque and tartar from the teeth and below the gum line. If necessary, a veterinarian may remove diseased teeth.
