Evanger's Health Watch: National Pet Dental Health Month

If your dog’s or cat’s breath isn’t fresh as a daisy, it’s nothing to ignore. That odor may indicate a serious health risk, with the potential to damage not only your pet's gums and teeth but internal organs as well.

Vitamins help support tooth and gum health, when combined
with regular brushings. Fresh ingredients from fresh meats
and produce will be better absorbed by your pet's body!

To address the importance of oral health care for pets, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) sponsors National Pet Dental Health Month each February. And that’s something to smile about since it draws attention to the dangers of periodontal disease.

According to the AVMA, "more than 85% of dogs and cats that are at least 4 years old have a condition in which bacteria attack the soft gum tissue. This condition is called periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is the final stage in a process that begins with the development of plaque on your pet's teeth."

The Signs

Beyond, gums and teeth, periodontal disease impacts your pet’s overall health. Among the signs of potential periodontal disease are discolored teeth, bad breath and swollen gums that may bleed easily. Late-stage periodontal disease can cause such permanent damage as loose teeth and tooth loss.

The Causes

Periodontal disease begins when plaque–a mixture of bacteria and food debris–builds up on tooth surfaces and works its way beneath the gum line. The bacteria releases toxins causing an inflammatory reaction that potentially leads to destruction of bone and tissue anchoring the teeth in place. If and when bacteria enter the blood stream, it can impact your pet’s liver, heart and kidneys.

Common & Serious

Periodontal disease in dogs and cats is not only serious, but it's also much more common than most pet owners realize. Again, the AVMA reports that "more than 85% of dogs and cats that are at least 4 years old have a condition in which bacteria attack the soft gum tissue.” So, it's easy to understand why periodontal disease is the most frequently diagnosed pet health problem.

Prevention

Don’t simply rely on your veterinarian to prevent periodontal disease by keeping your pet's teeth and gums healthy. It’s your job as well. While nothing replaces regular veterinarian visits for cleaning and checkups, ongoing follow-up oral care at home is just as important for controlling the formation of tartar and plaque that will negatively impact your pet’s pearly whites.

Nutrition also plays a vital role in keeping your pet’s teeth and gums healthy. Studies have shown that vitamin deficiencies can lead to periodontal disease in pets. Choose a diet rich in bio-available vitamins and nutrients, such as a canned pet food made with fresh, USA grown ingredients.