Why not roses?
by Jan Bellows, D.V.M.
Diplomate, American Veterinary Dental College
The next time you give your favorite four legged friend a kiss, take time to
smell the roses. But, if your cat's breath smells more fowl than floral,
something needs to be done. But what ? How can you take care of the problem,
and more importantly what can you do to prevent the progression of gum
disease in your cat?
Cat's teeth and gums are similar to our own. Food material, bacteria, and
saliva accumulate and adhere to the tooth surface forming plaque. We brush
our teeth daily to remove the plaque because if daily accumulation is not
removed, harmful bacteria can build under the gumline destroying the bone
surrounding teeth.
There are four classifications of periodontal disease. Grades one and two are
referred to as gingivitis. Here the gums are red and swollen. You will also
notice a disagreeable odor from the mouth. Gingivitis is curable if
treated early with, thorough teeth cleaning and polishing by a
veterinarian. If not treated, periodontal disease occurs. In grade three
periodontal disease, part of the tooth's supporting bone will be lost. Just
as with people, during this stage, deep cleaning and periodontal surgery may
be needed to be done to save the tooth. Once grade four periodontal disease
occurs, the tooth loosens from complete destruction of the supporting bone.
In most cases treatment involves extraction of the tooth to decrease the pain
of eating with wobbly teeth. This an important point. Dental pain is as real
in pets as in humans, even though they may not tell you so.
What should be the first step if your cat's breath doesn't smell like roses?
Have a veterinarian examine the mouth and make recommendations. Treatment
often requires anesthesia which may concern you. With current preoperative
blood testing, improved anesthetics, and patient monitoring, the anesthetic
experience is generally positive. The veterinarian may also take dental
x-rays to fully evaluate the tooth, roots, and supporting bone. Then either
the affected teeth will be cleaned, extracted, or surgery will be performed
to save the tooth.
Once the immediate problem has been cared for, it's time to prevent further
disease progression. Daily brushing, the use of fluoride, and special diets
for dental health, as well as monthly vitamins and/or antibiotics are
helpful. Prevention of periodontal disease will do more to lengthen your
cat's life and make it an enjoyable one then most anything else--so take a
good whiff and get moving-- your cat will love you for it !!!
Dr. Jan Bellows, is one of thirty board certified veterinary dentists and the
only one
in South Florida. His office All Pets Dental Clinic is located at 9111 Taft
Street.