Robert S. Gaddis, Jr. DVM
Studies have shown that 60-80% of all pets over 3 years of age need immediate dental care. Without professional cleaning and frequent homecare, a good number of these pets stand to lose some or all of their teeth. The overall health of these pets can also be affected by neglected oral health. It is known that the same bacteria found in a periodontally diseased mouth can be traced to the liver, the kidneys and the heart resulting in premature wearing of these vital organs.
One reason for the high percentage of pets having periodontal disease is that many people do not understand that their pets need dental health checkups and cleanings just as we do. Too many owners think that a dental treatment for their pets sounds absurd, so nothing is done until the periodontal disease process is so far advanced that the saving of the teeth becomes difficult, and finally the owner becomes aware of how important dental checkups and cleanings are. The increased quality of preventative and theraputic Veterinary Medicine has resulted in an increased life expectancy for our pets; however, over 75% of the geriatric pet disease may be directly related to poor oral hygiene. Such diseases include:
* Bacterial Endocarditis leading to heart failure.
* Bacterial Glomerulonephritis leading to kidney failure.
* Focal Hepatic Necrosis leading to liver disease.
If the earlier plaque and tartar formation is arrested and prevented, and if proper prophylactic teeth cleaning and homecare is maintained, your pet can enjoy a healthier and happier life.
Quotes
I loathe people who keep dogs. They are cowards who haven't got the guts to bite people themselves.
