Essential Pet Dental Cleaning: Health and Happiness in

Both cats and dogs can suffer from varying degrees of dental issues, with most of these problems developing gradually over time. Chronic conditions like these can be mitigated by maintaining a proper diet and ensuring regular dental hygiene. By doing so, many dental issues can be prevented.

When cats and dogs exhibit signs such as bad breath, decreased appetite, yellowed teeth, and the presence of tartar, it's time to consider dental cleaning procedures for them.

Cat and Dog Oral Health Overview

Plaque

Oral cavities are home to a complex community of bacteria, which are continually fed by saliva and food particles. If left unchecked, these bacteria can rapidly multiply, forming a sticky film composed of saliva and various bacteria known as plaque. Plaque can develop within 48 hours and is resistant to standard cleaning methods, such as brushing.

Calcified Tartar

Under the influence of bacteria, the carbon dioxide concentration in saliva decreases, and its acidity increases, leading to the precipitation of inorganic salts on the teeth. When combined with food particles, these salts form tartar. Tartar not only shields bacteria from being removed but can also lead to periodontal disease.

Gingivitis

As the bacterial population in the mouth increases, the gums can become inflamed, resulting in gingivitis. Inflammation can cause the growth of capillaries, leading to redness, swelling, and bleeding when the gums are probed. Gingivitis can occur even in the absence of tartar, with numerous triggers, not just oral bacteria.

Periodontitis

Periodontitis is a complication of gingivitis. As the inflammation spreads, the periodontal ligament is damaged, and the alveolar bone begins to resorb, leading to the deepening of the gingival sulcus and the formation of periodontal pockets. The destruction of periodontal tissues, particularly the resorption of alveolar bone, can result in loose teeth, shifting, and worsening bad breath. Some cats and dogs may even refuse to eat due to pain.

Cat and Dog Dental Cleaning Procedures

Ultrasonic Cleaning

Ultrasonic cleaning utilizes the "cavitation phenomenon" created by the interaction of ultrasound and water to generate immense energy, which is then used to remove tartar from the teeth. It's crucial to conduct a full oral assessment before cleaning, as it may sometimes involve tooth extraction. Whether or not extraction is necessary will be determined by the veterinarian's professional advice.

Currently, the most common method for dental cleaning is ultrasonic cleaning.

PostDental Cleaning Care for Cats and Dogs

If your pet has varying degrees of gingivitis, consider administering oral antibiotics or topical antibacterial agents.

After dental cleaning, it may be beneficial to continue using oral supplements like Bole Dan to prevent plaque and tartar, as well as to regularly check your pet's oral health or take them for periodic veterinary checkups.