Belleville Animal Clinic

Cats have 2 sets of teeth. The first set is called the milk teeth or deciduous teeth and they start to come in when the kitten is about 4 weeks old. They continue to come in until all 26 milk teeth have appeared, usually by 6 weeks. These teeth are non-permanent and they begin to fall out from 11 weeks until 30 weeks. This is a time which is similar to teething in human babies, so the kitten may have sore gums, may do a bit of complaining and may eat less due to pain. During the time when the milk teeth are falling out, new permanent teeth are coming in until all 30 of them have developed and have replaced the milk teeth usually by 8-9 months. . Occasionally, 1 or more of the milk teeth don't fall out, or extra teeth are present. This can cause gum and tissue problems due to the crowding of teeth in the mouth.

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 bacterial begins 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: Tarter begins to build up below the gum line and encourages bacterial growth. This damage is irreversible. 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!

Cats 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.

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