Let's talk about oral health

Most pets have periodontal disease by the time they are 3 years of age. Periodontal disease is a progressive disease of the supporting tissues surrounding teeth and the main cause of early tooth loss. It is the most common health problem in dogs and cats. Bad breath in pets may be a sign of periodontal disease that could lead to other health problems. Periodontal disease starts when bacteria combine with food particles form plaque/tartar on the teeth. The bacteria work their way under the gums and cause gingivitis - inflammation of the gums. The bacteria can also travel in the bloodstream to infect the heart, kidneys and liver.
Signs of periodontal disease:

• Sensitivity around mouth
• Loss of appetite
• Yellow or brown deposits on teeth
• Bleeding, inflamed and withdrawn gums
• Loose or missing teeth
• Pawing at the mouth or face
• Difficulty chewing
• Drooling

A professional veterinary dental cleaning is the best way to remove tartar from the teeth and under the gum tissue to protect your pet's health. With a professional dental cleaning and follow-up care, gingivitis is reversible. However, periodontal disease is not reversible. So, what is involved in a professional dental cleaning? While under anesthesia a full oral exam is done, full mouth dental radiographs, scaling and polishing teeth and extraction or treatment of diseased teeth. Once a dental cleaning has been performed, you can take a number of steps at home to keep your pet's teeth clean and lengthen the intervals between dental cleanings.
Just as in people, daily brushing can help remove food particles from between your pet's teeth. Pets are never too young to start having their teeth brushed at home; in fact, the younger they are the better. Human toothpaste should be avoided because they contain ingredients that should not be swallowed. If your pet will not tolerate brushing, there are other plaque-preventing products for your pet. Feeding dry food can help keep your pet's teeth and gums in good condition. In addition, special plaque-reducing foods, treats and toys can help. The Seal of Acceptance from the Veterinary Oral Health Council appears on products that meet defined standards for plaque and tartar control in dogs and cats. Providing routine dental care for your pet can be easy and can benefit your pet's oral and overall health.
If your pet is experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above please call us at (973) 728-2233 to schedule an appointment with one of our veterinarians.

Hills Science Diet t/d

Hill's nutritionists & veterinarians developed Prescription Diet® t/d® clinical nutrition especially formulated to support your cat's dental health. In fact, t/d is clinically proven nutrition to reduce plaque, stain, & tartar buildup.

CET Toothpaste for Dogs and Cats

CET Toothpaste is specially formulated to be safe effective and appealing to your dog or cat. Contains the C.E.T. Dual Enzyme system to inhibit the formation of plaque. formulated specially for dogs and cats they contain no foaming agents and are meant to be swallowed. Flavors are well accepted by pets and make brushing easy.

CET VeggieDent for Dogs

Dental Formula to Help Your Dog Experience Fresher Breath, Cleaner Teeth & Healthier Gums. Strengthens Gums & Safely Helps Fight Against the Advance of Periodontal Issues.