Make sure you get your pet's teeth sparkling because February is National Pet Dental Month. If you have not examined your pet's dental health lately, it's a good time to do so.
The risk of gingivitis and periodontal disease is the same for your pet as it is for people. If left untreated, bacteria build-up, plaque and tartar, can lead to infection and more severe health problems.
Below is a list of common dental health problems and with some solutions below you can help keep your pet's teeth shining white.
Oral Problems
Interesting Pet Dental Facts:
- Periodontal disease is the most prevalent disease among dogs and cats.
- 80% of dogs and 70% of cats over age three will require dental care during their lifetime.
- Out of 100 animals examined for oral health, 60% require prophylaxis but only 17% receive prophylaxis treatment.
Gingivitis - an inflammation of the gums.
Periodontitis - a general term for a disease of the oral cavity that attacks the gum and bone and delicate tissues around the teeth.
Pyorrhea - inflammation of the gums and tooth sockets, often leading to loosening of the teeth and accompanied by pus.
Caries - an area of decalcification of the tooth enamel leading to cavities in the tooth. Caries are very rare in dogs.
Plaque - is the first buildup of material adhering to the enamel of the tooth and is composed of a mixed colony of bacteria in an intercellular matrix of bacteria, salivary polymers, remnants of epithelial cells and white blood cells. It can cause caries, calculi buildup and periodontal disease.
Calculus (Tartar) - is calcium carbonate and calcium phosphate combined with organic material, deposited on the surface of the tooth.
