February is National Pet Dental Health Month
The American Veterinary Medical Association has proclaimed February as National Pet Dental Health Month. Veterinarians recommend routine dental care to maintain a dog’s good health.
For many dogs who do not receive dental care on a regular basis, periodontal disease may develop as soon as two years of age. Research has shown the infection in the gums can be absorbed into the dog’s bloodstream and travel to the vital organs such as the heart, kidneys and liver. If left untreated, the dog will suffer pain, tooth loss, inability to eat normally, or worse. Dental disease has also been directly linked to endocarditis and cardiomyopathy.
Dr. Ashley Rossman of Glen Oak Dog and Cat Hospital in Glenview suggests some dogs undergo their first dental cleaning at 2 years of age. She notes that smaller breeds of dogs are more susceptible to early periodontal disease and should be examined by the veterinarian within their early stages of life. She recommends a meticulous dental exam and dental X-rays to determine if the dog has potentially serious issues beneath the gumline that are not readily visible during an exam. The most common dental issues include, but are not limited to, fractured teeth, tooth decay, and tooth root resorption. A dental radiograph is used by the veterinarian to look for tooth decay. Other issues such as fractured teeth and buildup of dental tartar can be observed during the dental exam.
Dogs come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so the veterinarian will adjust the examination process accordingly. Before a dental prophylaxis can be performed, routine blood work is done to ensure there are no existing health issues that could possibly impact the safety of anesthesia, which is necessary to the cleaning process. While under anesthesia, the veterinarian utilizes specific dental instruments to lift the gums, inspect and then clean the teeth by scraping away any plaque or tartar.
When the exam and procedure are complete, the dog will be moved to a quiet kennel and closely monitored until it fully recovers from anesthesia. The veterinarian will determine when the dog is ready to return home. The dog may be a bit lethargic for a while, but is typically ready to eat later in the day. Soft foods are recommended for several days after the dental procedure. Understandably, pet owners may have concerns about having their dog being placed under anesthesia. When considering today’s modern methods for delivering anesthesia, the risk is actually very low. Rossman says veterinarians are usually quite willing to discuss their anesthetic protocols with pet owners.
The American Veterinary Medical Association says regularly brushing your pet’s teeth is the most effective thing you can do to keep teeth healthy between dental cleanings and may reduce the frequency for periodic dental cleaning by a veterinarian. Daily brushing is best, but brushing several times a week can also be effective. Many pet supply stores have a variety of toothbrushes designed for dogs. Most dogs tolerate brushing, and it’s best to begin training them to accept brushing when they are young. Rossman recommends toothpaste specifically designed for animals and their pH levels.
Finally, bringing your pet to the veterinarian for regular checkups is extremely important. Veterinarians can provide recommendations on how to maintain a pet’s dental health, which will result in a longer, healthier and happier life for your dog.
Dr. Ashley Rossman, DVM, is an established veterinarian and co-owner of Glen Oak Dog and Cat Hospital in Glenview. For information, call (847) 729-5200 or visit glenoakanimalhospital.com