Despite its differences, the mouth of a dog or cat has a lot of similarities to a human mouth. As we eat, we release small food particles that can be used by bacteria for growth. These bacteria form a film on the surface of the teeth called plaque. If the plaque is not removed within 24 hours, it will absorb minerals and harden into tartar or calculus.
The bacteria can also infect and irritate the gums. This is called gingivitis. When this disease is not controlled, the bone around the tooth begins to dissolve. This is called periodontal disease, and it leads to tooth loss.
The best way to prevent this is with a team approach of home dental care as well as professional care by your veterinarian. Daily home care is needed, using brushing, wipes or dental chews, to remove plaque and prevent tartar. Home care is designed to remove plaque and slow tartar formation. But once tartar accumulates and the gums begin to get inflamed, then a professional exam, cleaning and polishing is needed.
Brushing– The best method of cleaning the teeth is brushing. Daily brushing is ideal, but even three times a week would help. Do not use human toothpaste because they contain detergents that will upset a pet’s stomach when swallowed. The best products to use C.E.T. Enzymatic Toothpaste or Enzadent toothpaste. These come in a poultry flavor that dogs and cats love. You can use a soft toothbrush or a finger brush. For a video showing how to brush your pet’s teeth, visit https://binged.it/2GiYUMQ
Prescription Diet t/d– This food has been engineered to reduce plaque, tartar, and staining of teeth. It is designed so that the kibble does not shatter when chewed like most dry foods. Instead, the tooth penetrates it, and the unique texture of the t/d wipes accumulation off of the tooth’s surface. It has been shown that feeding t/d as your pet’s regular food is equivalent to brushing the teeth twice a week.
DentAcetic Wipes– Removes plaque by wiping it off with an oral antiseptic wipe.
C.E.T. VeggieDent and Enzymatic Chews– These also remove tartar through mechanical action and the C.E.T. enzyme. VeggieDent Chews are accepted by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (www.vohc.org ) as effective in reducing tartar and plaque. Dogs that eat dental chews must be monitored to be sure they chew them up and don’t swallow large pieces, which could cause an intestinal obstruction.
We have a good selection of dental care products in stock so stop by and take a look at them. The more you do at home, the less often your pet will need professional cleaning.