Canine Dental Disease

Does your dear doggy have dental disease?

Canine periodontitis is a bacterial infection of the mouth. There are four stages of periodontal disease, progressing from plaque and mildly inflamed gums to established gingivitis (gum disease), and then on to mild and ultimately severe periodontitis, which may involve bone and/or tooth loss. Ask yourself these questions:

1. Does your dog have stinky breath? This is one of the early signs of periodontal disease.
2. Does your precious pooch have red or swollen gums? You are not alone! According to the American Animal Hospital Association, gum disease affects 8 out of 10 dogs over 3 years of age.
3. Are your canine companion’s teeth yellow or brown? Loose or missing?
4. How’s your dog’s appetite—still a chow hound? Different? Having trouble chewing bones? Losing weight?

If you answered “yes” to any of the above questions, your pooch could have periodontal disease. But don’t worry, help is here!

Help is here!

Periodontal disease can be prevented, treated and even reversed if caught early. Together, you and your veterinarian can protect your faithful friend against the havoc of periodontal disease by remembering the following:

• Brush your dog’s teeth regularly to help reduce plaque, a sticky film that contains bacteria. Be sure to use toothpaste that is formulated for dogs.
• Visit your local veterinary hospital team for regular professional dental cleanings. This will reduce bacteria and help guard against periodontitis.
• Give your dog chew toys and perhaps consider dog food specially formulated to address dental disease.

As the saying goes, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”—so, please speak with your family veterinarian about whether your dog could benefit from this new product.