Dental Care for My Pet

March 2011: Dental Care for My Pet- Why Should I Care?

Dear Doctor,

Last month you discussed the need for extractions for someone's dog. Honestly, I have always ignored my veterinarian's recommendations for dental cleanings because it seems unnecessary. Can you explain why you believe dental care is important for pets?

Signed,

Clara in Stevens Point

Just like humans, good dental health is extremely important to overall health. Although the statistics vary, human dentists report that only 50% of the population seeks regular dental care for themselves. This number would indicate that your question is important for humans and animals alike.

From a young age, we are taught to brush our teeth daily. We are also told to floss, although many people do not take this important step for their own health. The reason we brush and floss is to prevent the accumulation of plaque on our teeth. Plaque is composed of a colorless film of bacteria, and may collect above and below the gum line. If plaque accumulates, it can develop into a harder substance known as tartar. Tartar is a hard, brown or yellow mineral deposit that bonds tightly to the enamel of the teeth. Once tartar develops, professional cleaning by a dental hygienist is needed to remove this stubborn substance.

Beyond the cosmetic appearance of the teeth, it is essential to remove the plaque and tartar to keep the bacterial population to a minimum along the gum line. If problematic bacteria accumulate, the gums will become inflamed and a foul odor will be noted on the breath. Over time, the bacteria in the mouth will may cause problems with decay of the enamel or infection under the gum line. Eventually, the support structures of a tooth can weaken, resulting in a loose tooth. Once the gums are inflamed and the teeth loosen, varying levels of pain and discomfort will develop in the mouth.

In addition to problems in the mouth, the blood that supplies the teeth and gums can carry infection to other parts of the body, especially the liver, kidneys and heart. Therefore, it is possible that untreated disease in the mouth can cause disease in other parts of the body over time.

This scenario applies to humans and animals. Human doctors and veterinarians alike have treated patients that are sick as a direct result of bacterial infection originating from the mouth. These are cases that could have been prevented by seeking appropriate dental care at the time that dental disease is discovered. Appropriate dental care is much more affordable if it is sought in the early stages, and early intervention helps maintain overall health while reducing the need for extractions.

Since the vast majority of people do not brush their pet's teeth daily, the risk of plaque and tartar formation is significant. Unless you have a prescription dental diet for your pet, there is little evidence to suggest that dry foods or treats help prevent dental disease despite the marketing claims on the package. Some chew toys and bones are effective, but the pet must chew regularly for noticeable benefit. This is not to say that all pets will have dental disease, but an estimated 60 to 70 % of dogs and cats have some degree of dental disease. Much of this is based on the individual genetics of the pet, which cannot be altered. Therefore, if your veterinarian recommends a dental procedure for your pet, it is based on the exam findings in your pet's mouth. It is a recommendation that should be taken seriously to prevent advanced health problems in the future. I hope this helps you to decide to pursue dental care for your pet.