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Dogs have 28 deciduous (temporary) and 42 permanent. Deciduous
or “milk” teeth begin to appear when a puppy is about four weeks
of age, and are lost gradually between 14 and 30 weeks of age.
During this time, puppies may eat slightly less and chew more.
Hard rubber or rawhide toys made especially for dogs are a good
investment to help prevent household damage during this time.
Occasionally puppies may retain some deciduous (baby) teeth
after the permanent teeth have appeared. This may damage the
soft tissues of the mouth and may even accelerate wear of
permanent teeth. A veterinarian should be consulted to determine
whether or not removal is necessary.
Why worry about dental care?
Bacteria build up from food
particles causes plaque to form which leads to tartar
(calculus), eventually gingivitis and periodontal disease. Teeth
begin to decay; bad breath becomes a problem as well as bleeding
gums and tooth loss. The real threat is the complications that
arise when the bacteria begin circulating through the blood
stream, potentially damaging the heart, liver, kidneys and
lungs.
Plaque: Food particles and
bacteria collect along the gum line forming plaque. Routine home
care can remove this plaque.
Tartar: Minerals in the saliva
combine with the plaque and form tartar (calculus), which
adheres strongly to the teeth. The tartar can cause gingivitis.
At this point, bad breath is apparent.
Periodontal Disease: Tartar
begins to build up below the gum line and encourages bacteria
growth. This can be very painful and can lead to loose teeth,
abscesses, bone loss or infection. There is potential for this
bacteria to enter the bloodstream where it affects the heart
valves, liver and kidneys. If treated periodontal disease can be
slowed or stopped.
Oral disease may affect your
pet’s behavior and sociability!
Small dogs are often more
likely to develop tooth problems due to the fact that their
mouths are compact and the teeth become crowded, providing prime
conditions for bacteria and plaque buildup.
Dental radiographs (x-rays) are sometimes needed to evaluate the
tooth structure under the gums. We are equipped to provide this
service
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q Nice
Job! No sign of plaque or calculus
Home dental care is
needed to maintain these healthy teeth and gums.
Brushing your pet’s teeth regularly (3-4 times per
week) is ideal. There are also products available
to help make home dental care easier if brushing is
not an option
Stage 1 – Mild Gingivitis
The margin of
attached gum is inflamed and swollen. Plaque covers
the teeth. Home dental care is needed. If there is
no improvement, dental cleaning is needed within the
next year to remove current plaque buildup
Stage 2 – Moderate Gingivitis
The entire gum line
is inflamed and swollen. The mouth is painful and
odor is noticeable. Dental cleaning to remove
calculus is needed within the next month. A
calculus control diet and/or home dental care are
needed afterward for prevention.
Stage 3 – Severe Gingivitis
The
gums are cherry red and bleeding – they are damaged
by infection and calculus. A sore mouth and bad
breath are evident. Dental cleaning to remove
calculus is needed immediately. A calculus control
diet and/or home dental care are needed afterward to
prevent reoccurrence.
Stage 4 – Periodontal Disease
Chronic infection is destroying the
gums, teeth, and bone. Bacteria are spreading
through the body via the bloodstream and may damage
the kidneys, liver, and heart. Dental cleaning to
remove calculus is needed immediately. Some teeth
may be loose and need extraction. Home dental care
afterward is necessary for future prevention
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