"Doggy Breath" and Dental Maintenance
Jann Elliott, DVM
"Doggy breath" may be something your family jokes about, but the reason for your pet's foul odor may actually be quite serious. That yellowish accumulation on the teeth is tartar, a calcified matrix of bacteria and saliva. Gross! Imagine the condition of your teeth and gums if you never brushed your teeth; that is the reality for most dogs and cats!
Dental disease, or periodontal disease, means infection of the teeth, specifically under the gums. Gingivitis exists in pets, too, and is a sign of dental disease. Dental disease can be painful and shorten a pet's life, but most pets tend to be stoic and continue to eat despite oral pain. Dental disease affects most dogs and cats age 3 and over. Sadly, teeth are lost due to progression of dental disease. Early dental cleaning with your veterinarian and being diligent about home dental care can prolong your pet's life and prevent lost teeth, pain, and infection.
Many owners would like to have dental cleaning for their pet without anesthesia. It seems simple -- just scrape off the tartar! Unfortunately, removal of dental tartar on the visible surfaces of the teeth is cosmetic and has little effect on a pet's health. Your vet must be able to to access and clean the area below the gumline, where dental disease resides.
You've heard of sedation dentistry for people, right? Understandably, because they don't speak our language or realize we are here to help, dogs and cats are far less cooperative on this matter than humans. While (most) humans will sit willingly to have a FULL oral exam, dental x-rays to evaluate tooth root health, and then permit someone to scrape, clean, and polish their teeth, it is absolutely not possible with an awake animal. Veterinarians today are trained in anesthesia, use safe, modern anesthetic protocols, and there is minimal inherent risk with anesthesia. Benefits of a thorough dental cleaning far outweigh the risks for most pets.
Consider starting a home dental care program. This works best either before dental disease affects your pet or right after a dental cleaning. Be honest with yourself: are you actually going to brush your pet's teeth? Moreover, would your pet even allow it? If the answer is no, there are other options: treats, water additives, and oral gels. We've all been to the big pet stores; there are thousands of chews, sprays, and gadgets supposedly effective for oral health. Choose wisely! Talk to your vet, who will gladly instruct you on proper tooth brushing and products for your pet, and visit the Veterinary Oral Health Council website (vohc.org) for approved tools which meet their stringent standards for preventing dental disease in pets.
February is Pet Dental Health Month, and our hospital offers discounted cleanings, as well as complimentary dental examinations and home care kits for pets. Check with your veterinarian for options and get rid of "doggy breath" once and for all!