posted 05-17-2003 08:48 PM         

Periodontal (gum) disease is one of the most common problems seen by veterinarians. The disease begins by plaque build up on the teeth of the dog. Plaque actually harbors the bacteria that infect the gum tissue and roots of teeth. When the plaque build up has become severe enough, infection sets in and tooth loss begins.

If bacteria enter the bloodstream through the blood vessels in the gums and teeth, major organs such as the heart, liver and kidneys can become affected.

Often the first symptom an owner notices is persistent bad breath. Many owners will come in complaining that their dog’s breath could curdle milk at fifty paces yet have never even opened the pet’s mouth to take a look at what the problem could be.

Other symptoms seen with periodontal disease are a loss of weight or appetite, a difficulty in chewing food and pawing or rubbing at the mouth. Plaque is difficult to see unless stained but tartar can be seen by anyone. It is a hard, brown or green deposit that is often seen on the outside of a dog’s molars. It often reminds people of barnacles on ships even though the tartar is of a smoother nature. Many times while doing a dental it is found that the only thing holding a dog’s teeth in IS the tartar.

Diet is often a major factor in the development of tartar. Statistics show dogs given only canned dog food or table scraps have a much higher incidence of periodontal disease. Dry dog food or kibble is best for most dogs. Biscuits and the new types of foods produced specifically for dental problems in dogs can decrease the risks and affects of tartar build up. Science Diet and the Iams/Eukanuba companies are just two who make these specially formulated dry foods.

The first thing to determine if your dog has any type of periodontal disease is to have him checked out thoroughly by your personal veterinarian. If he finds that your dog does indeed have a dental problem, he will usually recommend having an actual dental cleaning done. Due to the fact cleaning and scaling of the teeth require work both above and below the gum line, a general anesthetic is usually called for.

Thanks to advancements in recent years, anesthesia risks have lowered greatly. Even the extremely old dog can often be anesthetized with little concern.

While the dog is under, a tube will be placed into his trachea to allow breathing. This tube has an inflatable cuff on it that keeps the water needed for flushing during the procedure from going into the lungs.

After the tub is in place, the doctor will begin scraping the tartar and plaque off with both an electric machine as well as hand held dental instruments.

Any excessively loose teeth will be removed and the doctor will often us a red stain to make sure all the plaque has been gotten rid of. Once these things have been done, an abrasive dental paste will be applied with a machine that has a rotating head. This paste polishes the teeth and will smooth scratches so plaque won’t have as many places to adhere to.

It is usual procedure to send the dog home that day with instructions for follow up and preventative care given to the owner. Preventative care includes a small soft toothbrush, oral paste or gel and often an antibacterial rinse. If the infection was really sever, oral antibiotics will also be sent home with the dog.

Many owners balk at the idea of brushing their pet’s teeth. They feel it is some involved procedure that the dog is going to pitch a fit over. So often the dog doesn’t really mind the brushing.

The best course of action is to start with a puppy on a preventative routine so he becomes accustomed to having his teeth brushed. Older dogs may not ever become accustomed but will usually tolerate it. The keys to being able to care for your dog’s teeth are patience, practice, and lavish praise. By encouraging proper behavior in the dog, it is possible for both of you to look on dental time as quality time spent together.