Dental Facts

According to an American survey sponsored by Pharmacia Animal Health, dog owners have a serious lack of knowledge on what constitutes good oral health care. This comes in spite of the fact that about 70 per cent of those dog owners surveyed said they believe that oral health care is important to the dog’s well being.

The survey also found out that the veterinarian is the best outlet for instruction and counsel on oral health care.

Eighty per cent of owners believed their dog was getting an oral health examination because the mouth had been checked during an annual examination. Unfortunately only 15 per cent actually took their dog to the veterinarian for oral related problems, only 12 per cent had oral X rays taken and 27 per cent had professional cleaning performed. Eighty-six per cent of pet owners were very concerned about serious dental problems, like loss of teeth, gum disease and tooth decay, but only 13 per cent realized that these problems generally begin as an oral health problem.

An astounding 80 percent of dogs show signs of oral disease by age three, according to the American Veterinary Dental Society (AVDS).

Periodontal disease is a common problem in dogs, particularly smaller breeds. Canine dentistry experts believe this is because small dogs’ teeth are often too large for the mouth, forcing teeth closer together.

Bacteria, combined with saliva and food debris between the tooth and gum, can cause plaque formations that accumulate on the tooth. As bacteria grow in the plaque and, ascalcium deposits are deposited, plaque turns to tartar

If tartar is not removed from the teeth pockets of pus may appear along the gum line and further separate the teeth from the gum, which allows more food and bacteria to accumulate. The bacteria may give off foul odours causing halitosis (bad breath).

Without proper treatment, this plaque and tartar buildup may cause periodontal disease, which affects the tissue and structure supporting the teeth.

Unlike the inflamed gums of gingivitis, which can be treated and reversed with thorough plaque removal and continued plaque control, periodontitis can only be contained to prevent progression. The disease causes red, swollen and tender gums, receding gums, bleeding, pain and bad breath. It left untreated periodontitis can lead to tooth loss.

Follow Up

Regular follow up care should be scheduled with the family veterinarian and formulated foods and treats such as Greenies®, with proven benefits in plaque and tartar removal, should be used.

What are Greenies®?

Greenies® are a highly palatable, nutritious and digestible dental treat made from wheat protein. Greenies® freshen the breath and reduce dental tartar accumulation by 75% -100%, or an average of 87%.

How do they prevent dental tartar formation?

Greenies® prevent tartar formation both by mechanical cleaning and by binding calcium. They contain hexametaphosphate, a calcium chelator, and chlorophyll to freshen the breath. They are also very palatable. Dogs accept Greenies® over rawhide chews, another commercially available chew treat and some even preferred them to pig’s ears. Dental treats are effective only if the dog chews them. Because dogs accept Greenies® so enthusiastically, the dental benefits are readily obtained.

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Inside This Issue

The infection caused by periodontal disease may enter the bloodstream potentially affecting the heart, liver and kidneys.

Common indications of oral disease include bad breath, a change in eating or chewing habits, inflamed or bleeding gums, pawing at the face or mouth or depression.

If any of these signs are present the dog should be taken to a veterinarian for a dental examination.

Dog owners should practice a regular dental care regime at home. It’s best to start early, but grown dogs can learn to tolerate brushing

The first step in preventing oral disease is a routine physical check up including a dental examination.