Each year February is designated as Pet Dental Health month by the American Veterinary Medical Association(AVMA) and the American Veterinary Dental Society.  February isn't the only time to think about good oral health...keeping your pet's teeth in gums in good shape has many more benefits than simply fresh breath (although that is important too!).

My pet has bad breath.  Are bad teeth and gums the cause?
Most likely YES. However it is very important to schedule a visit to the veterinarian. In rare cases some diseases or situations can cause bad breath in the absence of or in addition to tooth/gum disease. Conditions such as kidney failure diabetes nasal or facial skin infections cancers or situations where the animal is ingesting feces or other materials can cause bad breath with or without periodontal disease.

What actually causes the bad breath when tooth/gum disease is present?
Bad breath medically known as "halitosis" results from the bacterial infection of the gums and supporting tissues seen with periodontal disease (periodontal = occurring around a tooth).

What is the difference between plaque and tartar?
Plaque is a colony of bacteria mixed with saliva blood cell and other bacterial components. Plaque often leads to tooth and gum disease. Dental tartar or calculus occurs when plaque becomes mineralized (hard) and firmly adheres to the tooth enamel then erodes the gingival tissue.

What can happen if my pet's teeth aren't cleaned?
Both plaque and tartar damage the teeth and gums. Disease starts with the gums. They become inflamed - red swollen and sore. The gums finally separate from the teeth creating pockets where more bacteria plaque and tartar build up. This in turn causes more damage and finally tooth and bone loss.

This affects the whole body too. Bacteria from these inflamed oral areas can enter the bloodstream and affect major body organs. The liver kidneys heart and lungs are most commonly affected. Antibiotics are used prior to and after a dental cleaning to prevent bacterial spread through the blood stream.

My pet doesn't seem like he is in any pain. Do they experience oral pain?
They may not verbalize or complain like a human would but animals most likely feel pain with periodontal disease. The pain levels may be low or very noticeable and it varies with each animal. Obvious signs of oral pain may include: "chattering" teeth while eating or grooming drooling crying out and refusing to eat.

How can I care for my pet's teeth at home?
It is important to use products specifically designed for dogs and cats. Do not use human toothpaste on your pet's teeth. There are specifically-formulated products that are available for cats and for dogs. Your veterinarian or veterinary technician can show you the proper techniques for your pet. Some animals do well with a toothbrush some do not. Other products include finger swabs tooth 'cloths' and mouth rinses such as C.E.T. Oral Hygiene Rinse. Talk to your vet about what type of product would work best for your pet. Ideally the teeth should be brushed daily as with humans. Even once every few days will be a big help.