As a concerned pet owner, we understand your need to know what the dental information is regarding our products.
Dental Facts:
The American Veterinary Dental Society has reported that 85% of all dogs over the age of three have some for of periodontal disease.
Bacteria in the mouth causes plaque which can accumulate over time without treatment. The accumulation hardens causing tartar and in turn, may lead to periodontal disease.
Chewing dental bones and treats acts as a natural "toothbrush" and helps reduce plaque before it can attach itself to the teeth.
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Periodontal Disease (Gum Disease) is the Most Common Disease Occurring in Pet Dogs and Cats
Normal
or
Diseased?
You make the choice for your pet!
Cause
Effects
Management
Cause
The cause of gum disease is the same in cats and dogs as it is in people.
Gum disease is an infection resulting from build-up of soft dental plaque on the surfaces of the teeth around the gums. The bacteria in dental plaque irritate the gum tissue if plaque is allowed to accumulate, which often leads to infection in the bone surrounding the teeth.
Hard dental tartar (calculus) consists of calcium salts from saliva deposited on plaque. Tartar starts to form within a few days on a tooth surface that is not kept clean, and provides a rough surface that enhances further plaque accumulation. Once it has begun to grow in thickness, tartar is difficult to remove without dental instruments.
Effects
Bad breath is the most common effect noted by owners. However, this is often only the tip of the iceberg.
The gums become irritated, leading to bleeding and oral pain, and your cat or dog may lose its appetite or drop food from its mouth while eating.
The roots may become so severely affected that some teeth become loose and fall out.
Bacteria surrounding the roots gain access to the blood stream ("bacteremia"). A study has shown that dogs with severe periodontal disease have more severe microscopic damage in their kidneys, heart muscle and liver than do dogs with less severe periodontal disease.
Management
The key to management of gum disease (for humans or pets!) is prevention. As long as the surfaces of the teeth are cleaned frequently, the gums will stay healthy.
Excellent oral health is maintained by daily oral hygiene, whether by brushing or by chewing.
Daily use of products that have been awarded the VOHC Seal will help to keep your pet’s teeth clean and the gum tissues and bone around the roots healthy.
VOHC recommends periodic veterinary examination of the mouth and teeth of your dog or cat. Many pets, particularly middle-aged and older cats and dogs, require periodic professional scaling in addition to on-going plaque control.
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