Did you know we carry Frontline Plus, Heartgard, and many other brands you trust at prices you will love online? Start Shopping!
|
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
Dogs:
Puppies have 28 temporary teeth that erupt at about 3-4 weeks of age. They have 42 permanent teeth that begin to emerge at about 4 months.
Symptoms of gum disease in dogs include yellow and brown build-up of tartar along the gum line, inflamed gums and persistent bad breath.
Broken teeth are a common problem, especially among outdoor dogs. According to veterinarian dental experts, aggressive chewing on hard objects is a primary cause of broken teeth in dogs.
Cats:
Kittens have 26 temporary teeth that begin to erupt at about 2-3 weeks of age. They have 30 permanent teeth that begin to emerge at about 3-4 months.
Symptoms of periodontal disease in cats include yellow and brown tartar build-up along the gum line, red inflamed gums, and persistent bad breath.
Cats can develop painful cervical lesions. Studies show that about 28% of domestic cats develop at least 1 painful lesion during their lifetime.
Oral disease is the most frequently diagnosed health problem for pets.
An astounding 80% of dogs and 70% of cats show signs of oral disease by age 3.
Oral disease begins with a build-up of bacteria in the pets mouth.
Bacteria, combined with saliva and food debris between the tooth and gum, can cause plaque formulations that accumulate on the tooth. As bacteria grows in the plaque and as calcium salts are deposited, plaque turns to tartar.
If tartar is not removed from teeth, pockets of pus may appear along the gum line and further separate the teeth from the gum, which allows more food and bacteria to accumulate.
Without proper treatment, this plaque and tartar build-up may cause periodontal disease, which affects the tissue and structure supporting teeth.
Periodontitis is irreversible and may lead to other health problems.
Unlike the inflamed gums of gingivitis, which can be treated and reversed with thorough plaque removal and continued plaque control, periodontitis can only be contained to prevent progression. The disease causes red, swollen and tender gums, receding gums, bleeding, pain, and bad breath. If left untreated, periodontitis can lead to tooth loss. The infection caused by periodontal disease may enter the bloodstream, potentially infecting the heart, liver, and/or kidneys.
Pet owners should look for warning signs of oral disease.
Common indications of oral disease included bad breath, a change in eating or chewing habits, pawing at the face or mouth and depression. If any of these signs are present, the pet should be taken for a medical exam.
The good news is that pet owners can reduce the risk of oral disease by following AVDS recommendations:
- Routine physical exams
- Regular dental care at home - brushing with toothpaste (human toothpaste upsets stomach)
- Specially formulated foods with plaque and tartar control.
Meet our Staff
Have a question? Get an answer now!
(256) 845-0046 :: 125 22nd St NW :: Fort Payne, AL 35967
We accept:
