Look in your pet’s mouth!
If the teeth have heavy brownish-yellow accumulations on them,
especially near the gum line, and if the gum line is swollen and
fiery red, dental disease is present. The brownish-yellow
accumulation which is often greasy and very nasty in appearance is
made up of plaque and tartar. Beneath those accumulations are
billions of bacteria which attack the gingiva (gums) causing them
to become inflamed and infected as evidenced by swelling and
redness. If the situation is not corrected, the inflamed gums
recede, exposing more and more of the tooth root. Eventually
the infection destroys the bone surrounding the root and the tooth
loosens in its socket. This condition can cause your pet much
pain and usually makes it difficult for your pet to eat
properly. Soon, the tooth will fall out.
Long term dental disease and infection causes damage to other
organs and body systems too. Bacteria in tartar around the
teeth are a source of infection to other areas of the body.
The bones of the mouth may be infected, and the heart and kidneys
can also be damaged or destroyed by these bacteria circulating in
the blood.
At Emerson Animal Hospital, we can help prevent or stop these
problems before they can damage your pet's mouth irreparably.
If your pet’s teeth have plaque and tartar they need to be cleaned
by a veterinarian. A toothbrush will not do the job.
Using an ultrasonic scaler, just as in humans, the plaque and
tartar is removed from the teeth, and any other necessary dental or
oral repairs are made. Major damage is often unseen and under the
gums. General anesthetic is necessary for all dental
procedures done at our hospital. Home dental care and diet
can help slow down the return of tartar and plaque after the dental
cleaning.
All pets have some form of dental disease during their
lifetimes. Let us examine your pet's mouth and teeth
regularly for problems. We can help them and prevent
unnecessary pain and damage to their teeth, resulting in a longer,
healthier lives.
Dental
Month, 1, 2,
3, 4, 5
