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.
If tartar is already present on the teeth when we start brushing, brushing will not remove this, but can help prevent further development. A regular toothbrush or a ‘finger’ brush can be used and focus on brushing the outside of the teeth along the gum line. Abrasive products work on the tooth surface and some toothpaste products include antimicrobial products. Products with special abrasive textures (CET chews) are designed to clean the chewing surfaces of the teeth. However, since abrasive products only work on contact surfaces, some companies have tried to offset this limitation by offering antimicrobial compounds (Chlorhexidine) incorporated into pet toothpastes and into topical gels and rinses. Nevertheless, gingival and periodontal disease is inevitable. The use of sealants for the tooth surface such as OraVet can be applied weekly at home as a good alternative to brushing.
All dog and cats could benefit from regular professional cleaning and polishing. This is the most underutilized service we offer.
Real preventative care means we start doing dental cleaning and polishing (prophylaxis) before periodontitis gets started (Grades I and II).
That means performing routine cleaning and polishing on dogs and cats that are 1,2,3,4, and 5 years of age.
Take Notice. Grade I dentals are inexpensive and prevent more expensive problems.
We can take away one of the most common health risks that endanger your pet by simply putting into practice preventative dental care.
Grade I dentals are an essential start to a lifetime of healthier teeth and gums and better health in general.
Grade I dentals prevent grade II, III, IV etc disease.
Grade I dentals are true preventative care.
Grade I dentals are easier to perform, much faster and less expensive.
They take no more than 25 minutes so the pet is anesthetized for a shorter period.
In addition, commercial foods such as Hills T/D can help maintain healthy teeth and gums.
Dr Paul Skellenger is the Veterinarian for Veterinarian Care. us and has over 20 years in Veterinarian medicine and experience with dental care and small animals. For additional information you can contact one of our Veterinarians in your area.
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