10% off all dental procedures during August
- Bryan Benshoof
- Aug 07, 2015
- 0 Comments
August is Dental Month and we would like to check your pet’s teeth for FREE.
10 reasons to get your pet’s teeth checked:
1) Periodontal disease begins when bacteria in the mouth produce a scum called plaque, which sticks to the surface of the teeth. Minerals in saliva then harden the plaque into calculus (tartar). As this plaque and calculus spread under the gum line, bacterial toxins are released which cause gingivitis and damage the supportive structures around the teeth resulting in bone infection and tooth loss.
2) Periodontal disease is the most common disease in adult dogs and cats. By 3 years of age 80% of dogs and 70% of cats are suffering from some degree of periodontal disease.
3) Bad breath is not normal. If your dog or cat has bad breath you are smelling periodontal infection. Often this is the only sign that periodontal disease is present. As a result, dental treatment often comes too late to prevent extensive disease.
4) Gingivitis and bone infection are PAINFUL. Most animals will continue to eat because the alternative is starvation.
5) In dogs we commonly see broken teeth, specifically “slab fractures” of the upper carnassials – the big molars up the back of the mouth. When these teeth fracture the whole side of the tooth snaps off causing PAIN and infection. Often these fractures progress to tooth root abscesses.
6) Cats also commonly suffer from tooth resorption. Over 50% of adult cats are affected. The exact cause has not been determined but the destructive process results in holes in the teeth. Tooth resorption is VERY PAINFUL and these teeth need to be removed.
7) Effects of periodontal disease can include development of a hole or fistula between the mouth and the nasal passages which causes infection and nasal discharge.
8) Bone infection or osteomyelitis destroys bone and weakens the jaw, which can lead to jaw fractures. Fractures can result from simple activities like catching a ball.
9) Bacteria from the mouth can enter the blood stream and cause serious damage in the heart, liver and kidneys.
10) Periodontal disease also makes diabetes mellitus more difficult to control and increases diabetic complications. Good dental hygiene is an important part of the management of diabetes.