Happy Pets have Healthy Teeth


Oral disease is the most common health problem for pets. By the age of 3, approximately 80% of dogs and 75% of cats have developed periodontal disease. Your pet may have oral disease based on one or more of these common signs:
  •  Yellow-brown tartar near the gum line
  •  Red, swollen or bleeding gums
  •  Persistent bad breath
  •  Abnormal drooling
  •  Pawing at the mouth
  •  Loose or missing teeth
  •  Difficulty eating or loss of appetite

Oral disease begins when plaque – a soft film containing bacteria – forms on your pet’s teeth. If not removed, the plaque will harden into tartar. This tartar builds up below the gum line, causing inflammation of the gum tissue (gingivitis) and the lining of the tooth socket (periodontitis).

Without treatment, infection can lead to tooth decay or tooth loss and bacteria can even spread through the bloodstream and cause kidney, liver, lung and heart problems. However, it is easily treatable with a full dental scaling and polishing and can be prevented by following a program of regular veterinary dental exams and a home dental care routine.

Anesthetia-free dental cleaning does not provide the opportunity for thorough cleaning or proper examination of the mouth. Pets that undergo this method are at risk for widespread infections and leaves smoldering problems that may well cause chronic pain.

Your pet is never too old to start a dental care routine. It is an important step in maintaining health. The older your pet gets, the more likely it is to develop oral disease. Ask a member of the Coverdale Veterinary Hospital Team to help you get started.