Dental problems cats

The importance of dental care with the (young) dog and cat.
Dental problems often occur with dogs and cats. Recent research shows that 29% of the complaints which the veterinarian diagnoses consist of dental problems.

With the dog this percentage is even higher, namely 31%. Almost one out of 3 animals has dental problems. With animals older than 3 years this percentage is 85% of the dogs and cats. Most pets need dental care urgently. The dental problems with the young cat and dog can be divided in two problems: problems with the elements (=teeth), or problems with the periodontium (this is the gums, the bone and the structures with which the element is anchored). Figure 1.7 A shows a section of a tooth and of periodontium. In this article I only want to discuss the cause and the consequences of tartar. Tartar starts with dental plaque which gets stuck in the corner between the gingiva (fig. 1.7A) and the dental enamel. Dental plaque arises from this. This dental plaque mineralizes slowly into dental tartar.

And this is the main enemy of the teeth. As a result of tartar the gingiva will become looser and looser, due to which it finally isn’t positioned over the enamel anymore, which causes that a part of the dental root will lie open. This root is less hard and strong than the enamel and will become decayed fast. Below photos clearly show how it starts.

You can clearly see that the gums draw back more and more. Loose elements are the consequence and finally lost of the element. 

There are a number of factors which speed up the development of dental plaque: smaller breeds (poodles, Yorkshire terrier, Maltese) and dogs with a short snout (Pekinese, shit-tzû etc) have more and faster problems due to the snout form. Deviating position elements pave the way. The quantity of minerals in the saliva has been determined by heredity: more minerals mean more plaque; sweet food paves the way to dental problems.

The most important complaints diagnosed by the veterinarian are:
•  Permanent bad breath
•  Chronic gingivitis
•  Loose elements, dental lost
•  Painful, sensitive oral cavity
•  Fluid seeping out of the nose, sneezing
•  Chewing problems
More important however are the consequences for the rest of the body and the general health of the animal. Veterinarians call this systematical consequences. Through the opening along the cingulum and root all kinds of bacteriums might enter the body. There is no barrier, you might say. The consequences of this can be found below. All kinds of bacteriums might jam on these spots and might cause infections.

A regular dental care is very important therefore to cure and prevent complaints.

What can you do?
Your pet doesn’t have problems yet? Regular and good brushing is very important. The plaque will disappear then and tartar will arise less fast. Have your veterinarian inspect the teeth with every examination. Consult your veterinarian if you think that something is wrong with your pet’s teeth.

Your pet already has dental plaque or tartar?
Have your veterinarian clean this; the best way is to also have it polished, like your own dentist also does after having removed the tartar. Then, start brushing regularly again and check it well. You can buy special chewing strips at the veterinarian. These contain special enzymes which help dissolving the plaque. He also has special chunks which clean the teeth. Your veterinarian can tell you more about it.

Summary
It isn’t only important for human beings to keep their teeth healthy and good. Our pets live longer and longer and their teeth have to stay well longer therefore.
Especially with the growing up cat and dog, you must regularly check his/her teeth, not only to see if there is tartar, but also to check if their are missing elements. Check if all teeth, both milk teeth and permanent teeth are coming through well and on the right position. If you have any doubts, have the veterinarian check it.