Pet Care Articles - Pet Care White Papers from VeterinarianCare.us

Dental Care Articles and Dental Care White Papers

• Oral and Dental Health are Keys to Your Pets Quality of Life by Paul Skellenger, D.V.M.

After a thorough examination, the teeth are scaled using specialized hand instruments and an ultrasonic scaler. All plaque and tartar is removed and every tooth in the mouth is carefully cleaned. The teeth, gums, and the periodontal tissues are then examined by the doctor to be sure they are healthy, with special attention paid to areas below the gum line.

• Plaque, Tartar, Gingivitis, Periodontitis: How does this happen? by Paul Skellenger, D.V.M.

In the beginning the teeth are coated with a thin layer of debris that sticks to the surface. Unless this is removed right away, gingivitis will happen. Daily tooth brushing is the only sure way to prevent this. Unfortunately so far, we have not been able to teach a dog or cat how to brush its teeth and naturally we see lots of gingivitis. Within hours, the layer of debris coating the teeth thickens and bacteria accumulate along the edge of the gums where they begin to multiply. This is the plaque you hear so much about. At first it is quite soft and can be removed by simply by brushing or chewing. However, with time, the bacterial population will increase and the plaque will become more secured to the surface of the teeth. Already, the formation of tartar and the resultant gum and bone infections are inevitable.

• Tooth Extraction by Paul Skellenger, D.V.M.

Tooth extraction is performed under general anesthesia. Systemic pain medication and local anesthesia accompany most extractions. We frequently use combinations of pain medications such as narcotics, non-steroid anti-inflammatories, and local blocks. In cases of severe infection, or discomfort associated with infection, we may use injectable and/or oral antibiotics before, during, and after a procedure. Depending on the severity of infection, antibiotics may be continued for some time.

• Doxirobe Gel: Periodontitis Treatmen by Paul Skellenger, D.V.M.

Bacteria are the causative agent in the development of dental disease (infection). Bacteria cause gingivitis that can rapidly progress to periodontitis that may result in destruction of periodontal tissues and the formation of deep pockets between the tooth and gum and some of these resemble an abscess. Deep periodontal pockets do not necessarily indicate the demise for that tooth, even if there is some tooth loosening. In many cases, we can implant Doxirobe Gel that will control infection and promote the rebuilding of periodontal tissues. These implants begin as a gel like substance injected into the periodontal space after thorough cleaning. This material rapidly hardens and sticks to the tooth and surrounding gum. The doxycycline (an antibiotic) is continuously released into the area to control infection. The implant remains in place for many weeks delaying the formation of scar tissue giving bone and other periodontal tissues a chance to regenerate.

• What is Periodontal Disease? by Paul Skellenger, D.V.M.

Periodontal disease is the most prevalent disease in pets. Periodontal disease is typically associated with active bacterial infections that can lead to substantial disease and loss of periodontal structures, which may lead to other complications to the patient's health. Antibiotics can greatly improve the success of treatment, but are not a cure for the condition. Collectively, the periodontal tissues are referred to as the periodontium. They are the tissues that support the teeth, including the gums (gingiva), periodontal ligament, alveolar bone and cementum.

• What Can I do to keep My Pet’s Teeth and Gums Healthy at Home? by Paul Skellenger, D.V.M.

The solution to keeping your pet’s teeth and gums healthy and to prevent dental disease is to brush your pet’s teeth daily at home and schedule regular professional dental cleaning and polishing at our hospital. Daily tooth brushing is an important part of a regular grooming and hygiene program. Yet, whether we like it or not, some dogs and cats would rather not have their teeth brushed. Those of us who are willing to spend 20 seconds every day brushing their pet’s teeth will notice that the development of tartar and gingivitis can be delayed successfully. We realize that not everyone has the time or inclination to brush their pet’s teeth or may quickly run out of fingers if they try to do so. Brushing does not always make sense.

• The Dental Cleaning and Polishing Procedure by Paul Skellenger, D.V.M.

Oral health is extremely important to your pet’s quality of life. Diseases of the teeth, gums, and bone are common and most are treatable and we can have a very positive result. In general, oral procedures are performed under general anesthesia including simple cleaning and polishing of the teeth. We want you to be well informed about all the steps in the process.

• FAQ regarding Periodontitis by Paul Skellenger, D.V.M.

What is the most common disease in dogs and cats? Without a doubt, the most common disease affecting cats and dogs is periodontitis. In fact, studies show that 85% of all cats and dogs we see have periodontitis and nearly 100% of all cats and dogs over the age of 4. Periodontitis has a negative impact on your pet’s health.