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Gum Disease And Our Pets

Humans are not the only ones to suffer from gum disease. Our pets can also be at risk for gum disease.

Unfortunately for our pets, many pet owners do not realize that teeth are teeth whether they are in a human's mouth or an animal's mouth.

There are some differences though in how pet's teeth can be damaged. Dogs who catch flying saucer-like play toys can experience tooth breakage. Dogs can also encounter tooth damage from biting on hard objects like Sticks, rocks and really hard bones. These injuries can cause a tooth to die, which will then lead to infection or abscess of the bone.

Playing "tug of war" or giving a puppy hard object to chew may damage the baby fangs and quite possibly the nearby adult fangs too.

Owners may notice that their cat or dog may have a dental problem when they observe the following:

Difficulty eating

Inability to hold objects in the mouth

Bleeding from the gums

Excessive drooling

Owners may also notice signs of dental problems by examining the mouth of kittens, puppies or older pets. Check for smells, redness or obvious changes (tooth out of place).

Just like in us humans, periodontal disease in our pets is caused by the accumulation of plaque and calculus on the teeth from food debris and bacteria.

Bad breath and bleeding gums are the leading symptoms of gum disease. Owners may witness a pet rubbing it mouth or dropping food when they have gum disease.

Pet owners can help prevent gum disease in their pets by brushing their pet's teeth starting early on. Do not use human toothpaste or baking soda on your pet's teeth as they are likely to swallow some and it will irritate their stomach. Pet toothpaste is made especially for them and won't hurt them if they swallow it.

To brush your pet's teeth, you will need to first get them accustomed to touching their mouth by rubbing the muzzle area with your fingers. If this is tolerated go ahead and raise up the lips and gently rub their teeth. You can put the paste directly on your finger or use a pet toothbrush. Most of the pet's plaque and tartar will form on the outside of the tooth so be sure to brush these surfaces well. The back teeth are also important to brush. It is good to start in the back and work your way forward.

Ask your vet to show you how to brush your pet's teeth properly. Make sure you start brushing the teeth right from the start so that you pet will allow you to do it when they are older and stronger.

Ask your vet about safe chew toys and snacks to use with your pet as not all of them are good for your pet's teeth. Ask your vet to show you how to inspect your pet's mouth for signs of gum disease. Your pet will thank you for taking the time to find out how to care for their teeth.