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1. Healthy gums - pink, firm and comfortable.
Teeth clean - no tartar.
Keep the teeth in good order by feeding a good quality dry food, with
Hill's t/d as part of the diet. (t/d cleans the teeth as the dog / cat chews
on it). Encourage chewing with hide chews, Kongs and Nylabone. Regular
dental checks with one of our veterinary nurses.
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2. Early Tartar - but just a hint of tartar at gum level.
This is the stage that the teeth should be de-scaled and polished i.e.
before there is gum disease.
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3. Tartar and gingivitis - the gums are red and swollen
Itchy mouth (face rubbing) and some smell.
If the teeth and gums have deteriorated then extractions may be
necessary.
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4. Loads of tartar, gum health deteriorating, unpleasant
smell, maybe some pain. Some teeth becoming loose as pockets form between
gum and root (not visible).
This dog's health will be affected by infection spreading from the gums
to the throat, and via the bloodstream to the chest, liver and kidneys. The
mouth needs extensive de-scaling, extractions, dental restoration where
possible
and antibiotics until the gums have recovered.
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5. Dental Caries - tooth structure rots away.
The first sign is a bad smell on the breath but pain might not be noticed
until the bone is infected. These teeth need to be extracted urgently.
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6. Severe tartar. Gums very inflamed and bleeding. Pus
seeping from gums, awful smell. Deep pockets have formed, roots are exposed,
teeth are becoming loose and falling out.
These pets will not be feeling well! Multiple extractions are required and
treatment of the infected bone around the diseased teeth. After dental
attention they will have a new lease of life. Fortunately dogs and
cats can eat well even with no
teeth!
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7.
Root abscess of the left lower canine (baby tooth).
Dogs should be examined at 7 - 8months of age to check that all the baby
teeth have gone. Any remaining should be removed before they cause trouble.
Cats rarely have this problem. |
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| 8. Gum granulomas - inflammed gum growing
over the teeth - very common in boxers and mastiff breeds. Before, and after
treatment. |
3 Monthly Dental Check-Up
To keep you pet's gums and teeth healthy early treatment is essential.
Bring your pet for a check-up with the vet or nurse every 3 months (there is a
small charge).
Most dogs and cats need a de-scale and polish annually from the age of 3
years to keep the teeth in good order.
Routine de-scaling under general anaesthetic
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| <Our
Anaesthetic Standard> |
