FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT GREYHOUNDS
THE ARRIVAL OF NEW GREYS | ADOPTING A PUPPY
SAGE ADVICE | GREYHOUND
OBEDIENCE
Dental Month
Dental disease is a common health problem in dogs, and greyhounds are certainly NO exception! According to the American Veterinary Dental Society (AVDS), 80% of dogs demonstrate signs of oral disease by the age of three. It can lead to bad breath; swollen, bleeding gums; loose teeth; difficulty eating; and even more importantly, systemic problems such as kidney, liver, and heart valve disease. The health of the teeth and gums directly affects the health of the entire body. But you can easily avoid these problems by regularly visiting your veterinarian for exams and cleanings and by caring for your pet's teeth at home.
What causes dental disease?
A thin film of protein from saliva, food particles, and dead cells forms on your pet's teeth and gums. If this layer is allowed to thicken, it becomes a perfect environment for bacteria. Bacterial plaque buildup along the gum line can lead to gingivitis, or inflamed gums, and infection. Gingivitis can lead to periodontitis, an inflammation of the deeper tissues surrounding the teeth. In severe cases, periodontitis may be associated with the spread of infection to other parts of the body, including the heart and kidneys.
What can your veterinarian do to prevent dental disease?
At your pet's dental appointment, your veterinarian will first examine its mouth and teeth for problems such as plaque, calculus, or gingivitis; broken or missing teeth; discolored teeth; masses; or obvious periodontal disease. Then your veterinarian will safely anesthetize your pet to examine its mouth more thoroughly and to clean its teeth. The in-depth exam may reveal that your pet needs treatment such as tooth extraction, dental bonded sealants or special therapy for advanced gum disease. Dental x-rays may also be needed to find problems that can't be seen by visual examination. Finally, after examining and cleaning your pet's teeth, your veterinarian will polish them and may apply fluoride or a protective barrier to protect the teeth from plaque formation.
What should I do at home for my pet?
Brushing your pet's teeth can go a long way toward preventing dental disease. Some pets resist brushing, but most eventually accept it with a little practice! Aim at brushing your pet's teeth once a day or at least three times a week. Toys, treats, certain rawhide chews, and specially formulated foods are available to help keep your pet's teeth clean, but these work best in addition to brushing your pet's teeth. Most of these toys and foods have a mild abrasive action to help wipe away the thin layer of protein that builds up on teeth. Others are treated with enzymes to help reduce bacteria. Your veterinarian may also recommend gels, sprays, rinses, or special treats or foods that chemically retard plaque. Keep in mind that if home dental care is not provided, then professional cleanings may be needed more often. And if your pet is having difficulty accepting home care, contact your veterinarian so you can work together to find an agreeable solution. Remember, by taking care of your pet's teeth and gums, you're helping care for its overall health.
Are there helpful products, treats, and chews?
Though there are various brands of toothbrushes and toothpastes, most pets prefer CET® toothpaste and toothbrush kits for the great flavor and ease of use. CET® chews (Hextra and regular) are an excellent choice of treat and rawhide chew that your pet will love as it removes plaque from the teeth with every chew! Oral rinses and water supplements such as CET Aquadent® eliminate bacteria in the mouth as they drink water and freshen breath, too.
Other tips.
Foods and treats that are high in sugars are known to accelerate the rate of periodontal disease in humans and pets. We recommend all natural foods, treats and chews that free of unhealthy ingredients. Visit one of our health food and supply stores if you need help selecting a healthier food and treat supply for your pet.
The above information is presented by City Vet.
