Dogs and cats are susceptible to dental problems and diseases just like their owners. Dental health month (February) is a time when veterinarians remind their clients of this important aspect of their pet's health care. As often is the case, with health matters, early detection and prevention is the best way to avoid dental problems.

Dental care should start when your pet is young. Puppies and kitten begin to get their temporary teeth at 2 or 3 weeks of age. Because of these new teeth, it's a good idea to provide them with hard rubber toys or chew toys. Gnawing on these toys will help their teeth develop, ease any gum discomfort and may save your furniture and shoes.

Permanent teeth should start to come in at 3-4 months and all the adult teeth should appear by 6-7 months.

When your pet receives a dental checkup, you may be asked to start brushing your pet's teeth on a regular basis.

• Brushing is the best way to break down the plaque and tartar buildup on the teeth.
  
  
• Bacteria develop in the plaque and begin to cause damage, especially in the crevices between the teeth and gums. This can lead to gum infection which may produce abscessed teeth and gums or periodontal disease.
  
  
• Periodontal disease is the number one dental problem for dogs. When it occurs it can cause problems in other body organs - particularly the heart and kidneys.

To begin a brushing routine,

1. Wrap a gauze square or washcloth around a finger and use it like a toothbrush.
2. Wipe all the teeth with strokes from the gumline to the tip of the tooth.
3. Do this once or twice a day for a few weeks until your pet is familiar with having the gums and teeth rubbed.
4. Gradually work up to a soft toothbrush and plain water. After a week of using the soft toothbrush add a small amount of a dog or cat toothpaste.

Never use human toothpaste - it may foam, cause a stomach upset or promote vomiting.

People should regularly examine their pet's mouth for signs of periodontal disease, such as swollen, red or bleeding gums; persistent bad breath; loose teeth or the loss of teeth; pus between the gums and teeth; broken teeth; and any unusual growth in the mouth.

Reluctance to eat, play with chew toys or drink cold water could also be warning signs for tooth and gum disease.

If you notice any of these signs or have questions about how to best care for your pets teeth, check with your veterinarian. Dental health month (February) may provide an opportunity for you and your pet to benefit from improved dental care.


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Dr. Burtis practices companion animal veterinary medicine at Bay Cities Animal Hospital in Burlington. The human-animal bond is a celebration of one of the longest, strongest and best relationships in our world.

"I love the profession I have been a member of for over 30 years ( 33 years in 2002, to be exact ) and I continue to enjoy the opportunity to work with pet animals and their owners."

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