DENTAL BASICS FOR PETS

Ensuring healthy oral health for your furry friends

- Jyotika Rajkumari*

Dental issues in pets, especially in dogs and cats, are extremely common. Dental care is a crucial aspect of your pet's overall health and well-being. Just like humans, pets can suffer from dental issues and if left untreated, can lead to discomfort, pain, and even serious health issues. Dental health is vital to maintain the overall well-being of your furry friends. Without teeth, the survival of pets is particularly challenging and may require special diets tailored to their needs.

Awareness of dental anatomy, disease progression, and dental care options builds a foundation for better dental health.

UNDERSTANDING DENTAL DISEASE

Dental issues in pets start when plaque (combination of food remains + Bacteria in the mouth) hardens into tartar (i.e. hardened plaque) below the gum line and becomes damaging and infectious to tissue and the jawbone. Dental disease is commonly referred to as periodontal disease. It has two distinct phases.

1. Gingivitis - which is the inflammation of the gum tissue, is considered reversible with proper care.

2. Periodontitis - As gingivitis worsens and bacteria continue to accumulate above and below the gumline, periodontitis occurs. Periodontitis is inflammation of the area surrounding the tooth and is considered irreversible but can be managed through intensive and consistent dental care.