How to Give Your Pet a Healthy, Pain Free Mouth

By Scott Lackenby | Dated August 11, 2015

Just like humans, the health of our pet’s teeth and gums affects their overall health and quality of life. Imagine how your mouth would taste (and smell!) if you didn’t clean your teeth regularly? Dental (periodontal) disease is caused by plaque bacteria that accumulates on the teeth, causing inflammation, infection and damage. In Australia, 4 out of 5 dogs and cats over the age of 3 have some form of dental disease. Certain breeds are more prone, but all dogs and cats are at risk from a young age. Often owners are unaware of a problem because many pets continue to eat despite dental disease.

What are the signs of Dental Disease?

Our pets feel pain just like we do, but cannot tell us when they are uncomfortable or sore. Dental disease causes bad breath, drooling, decreased appetite, face rubbing and reluctance to be handled around the mouth. Bacteria are always present in animal’s mouths, but when there is dental disease the bacteria move into the bloodstream every time they eat. This increases the risk of infection elsewhere in the body too, such as the liver and kidney.

What if I suspect Dental Disease?  

It is best to schedule a check-up with your vet as soon as you notice signs of dental disease. When your vet examines an animal with dental disease they often see red, swollen or bleeding gums, tartar accumulation, broken teeth, discoloured teeth, loose teeth, or ulcers.

How can Dental Disease be treated?

For cats and dogs with dental disease, a dental procedure by your vet is the only way to remove tartar build up. Thorough cleaning of the teeth requires general anaesthesia so that the plaque and tartar can be removed properly. A dental procedure involves:

• Scaling: removes tartar using ultrasonic cleaning equipment
• Polishing: smoothes the surface of the teeth
• Extractions: remove rotten teeth that are not salvageable
• Flushing: rinses bacteria and tartar from the mouth

Appropriate pain relief is prescribed so that minimal pain is felt. Most pets who have been suffering from dental disease feel more comfortable straight after treatment and are often eating within hours of recovery. If oral infection is present, a course of antibiotics will be prescribed. After the dental treatment when the mouth is clean, a prevention program can start.

How can I keep my pet’s teeth clean?

To prevent dental disease, or slow its progression after treatment, Home Dental Care is important. Its aim is to slow down plaque and tartar accumulation. Ideally, preventative care should start at the puppy and kitten stage. If you spend a few minutes each day caring for your pet’s teeth you will improve their overall health.

1. Dental Chews

There are many chew products to aid in home dental care. They physically rub on the teeth and wipe off plaque. For safety, always ensure the dental chew is an appropriate size for the dog or cat. It should be bigger than their head size! The longer the time spent gnawing on the chew, the more effective it will be.

2. Tooth Brushing

Brushing your pet’s teeth is the most effective form of plaque control. Many dogs and cats enjoy having their teeth brushed, especially if it is started when they are young. It is not as difficult as people think and it is best to use a finger toothbrush with pet toothpaste. Pet toothpaste is lower in fluoride than human toothpaste.

3. Dental Diets & Bones

Specific veterinary pet foods are available to help prevent dental disease. They slow the build-up of plaque and tartar and reduce gingivitis. Examples are Hills Science Diet Prescription t/d and Hills Science Diet Oral Care.

Bones are useful in Home Dental Care and also keep your pet entertained as dogs especially need to chew regularly. However there are risks associated with bones. NEVER feed cooked bones as they can splinter and cause serious problems such as gut obstruction. Cut bones or flat bones can also cause teeth fractures in dogs. Your vet will advise you on the most appropriate bone for your pet.

4. Yearly Check Up

Pets should have a regular health check once or twice a year. The vet will perform a thorough physical examination and part of this involves examining their mouth for any problems. Therefore, dental disease can be picked up early and treated appropriately. This saves money in the long run because the problems will be treated before they progress.