DOG BREATH

Can you believe that 95% of dogs over the age of five have dental disease? Does your pet's bad breath make you push him away? You may not know this, but bad breath may be the result of potentially serious dental disease. Periodontal disease is a catch all term for diseases of the gums, tooth roots, bone surrounding the teeth and the ligaments which join the teeth to the socket.

Early signs of dental disease can be spotted if you examine your pet's mouth regularly. Pay special attention to the color of the gums and teeth. Healthy gums are firm and resilient and coral pink in color. Yellow-brown stains on the teeth indicate the presence of plaque which is composed of saliva, bacteria and food particles. The bacteria will multiply and invade the gum tissue causing gingivitis (reddened gums) and bad breath. If left unattended, the bacteria invade deeper into the root surface underneath the gum tissue and will inflame the ligaments which result in bone loss and loose teeth. You'll see ulcerated, soft gum tissue which erodes away from the teeth. In advanced cases, both dogs and cats will experience pain while trying to eat.

If you see tartar and plaque build up in your pet, it is best to get the teeth cleaned before the microbes damage the gums and destroy teeth. If your pet is over the age of six, it is in his best interest to have a complete physical exam, a blood test and a urine analysis before the dentistry. In this way you will be taking the very best precautions to assure that all is well for the anesthetic and dental prophy. Give us a call to set up an appointment for a pre dental exam during which we can answer any questions you may have regarding "dog breath."