Dental disease is one of the most common problems we see with our patients. The statistics state that by three years of age 70 % of dogs and 85% of cats have periodontal disease. By definition this is advanced disease that results in bone loss. Once bone has been lost these changes cannot be reversed.
We just need to look to human dentistry to see how much work is needed to keep our own teeth healthy; twice yearly dental checks, visits to the hygienist, electric tooth brushes (with timers), mouth wash and dental floss.
So how many of our pets have their teeth brushed regularly by their owners? Not very many is the answer. Often we find that after a major dental that involves multiple teeth extractions, owners try to do the right thing but, as is often with our own teeth, it is difficult to maintain.
There are no specific answers to these dental problems as the variability within dogs, particularly with the shape of their mouths, is huge.
We need to start looking at recording dental changes from the very first vaccination. Then at desexing we need to assess for retained deciduous teeth, jaw conformation and gum disease.
At every annual health check we will check teeth and our advice may be a check in six months rather than one year or it may involve prophylactic treatment. There are many options available to help maintain good dental health including a variety of dental treats, complete foods, pet tooth brushes and pastes and even mouthwash.
If prevention fails and we need to look to dentistry we are very well equipped with an excellent dental machine to allow us to scale, polish and extract teeth if necessary.
The health of your pet’s mouth is critical to its overall condition and consequently the longevity of your pet. We are dedicated to the total well being of your pet and we are highly motivated to help you in any way we can to help keep your pet’s mouth healthy.
