Dental Diseases in Animals

Oral and dental diseases unfortunately are very common in companion and performance animals.

In fact, periodontal disease (gum disease) is the most common clinical condition in companion animals. It causes bad breath, oral pain, behavioral changes such as reduced appetite, and may affect distant organs such as the kidneys, liver and heart. Maintaining a healthy mouth will typically cost you less than $200 each year, but emergency care for organ failure due to poor oral hygiene could cost thousands, and more importantly, the life of your pet.  For more information about dental disease in companion animals, click here.

In addition to periodontal disease, many other abnormalities can affect the mouth and teeth. Has your pet had its mouth examined recently? If not, contact us at (248)477-0334, and find out more about our own dental specialist, Dr. Tom Kavanagh.

Good oral health is an important component of general health for your pet, so call us today!

 

Signs of oral and dental diseases in dogs and cats:

 

• Bad breath (no, "puppy breath" is NOT normal!).  You know it's time to see Dr. Kavanagh when you stop giving your dog or cat kisses due to halitosis
• Red and/or swollen gums

 

• Loose teeth or teeth that are discolored or covered in tartar
• Your pet shies away from you when you touch the mouth area
• Drooling or dropping food from the mouth
• Bleeding from the mouth
• Loss of appetite or loss of weight (this combination can result from diseases of many organs, and early veterinary examination is important).

If you think your pet needs dental care, we recommend that you make an appointment today to discuss an appropriate protocol for you and your pet.  Dr Kavanagh is one of two veterinary dental specialists in the state of Michigan, and has helped thousands of owners and their pets.  Maybe he can help you, too.

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Plaque and Tartar Control

Prevention of the most common oral disease in pets (and in people!) consists of frequent removal of the dental plaque and tartar thats forms on teeth that are not kept clean.  So yes, that means you need to brush your pets' teeth, everyday if possible.  At home care, combined with regular professional cleanings with your veternarian, can add years to your pet's lifespan.  Wouldn't you, if you could?

The Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC®) awards its Seal of Acceptance to products that successfully meet pre-set criteria for effectiveness in controlling plaque and tartar deposition in dogs and cats. The VOHC is an entity of the American Veterinary Dental College. Talk to your veterinarian about products that can help keep your pet's teeth clean and tartar-free between professional cleanings.