Dog - Dentistry

I was totally unaware that dogs have dental problems. Is it common?

Dental disease is probably as common and as painful in dogs as in man. Since dogs do not have the ability to communicate their discomfort, until relatively recently a lot of dental problems have been overlooked in our pets.

Are canine dental problems similar to our own?

No. In man the most common problem is caries or decay which, due to the demineralisation (loss of calcium) from the enamel and the dentine results in painful infected cavities. In the dog decay only represents approximately 10% of dental problems, the majority of which are caused by periodontal disease.

What is periodontal disease?

This is infection in the tissues surrounding the tooth. Accumulation of tartar (calculus) on the tooth will cause the gum to recede around the base of the tooth. Infection soon follows and as a result of inflammation of the gum (gingivitis) it recedes. Untreated, the infection then spreads into the tooth socket and ultimately the tooth loosens.

Is periodontal disease very common?

It is estimated that over 85% of dogs over three years old suffer from some degree of periodontitis, making it by far the most common canine oral disease.

What is tartar and can it be prevented?

The canine mouth is naturally very unhygienic. Bacteria abound. Many of these breed on the surfaces of the tooth and form an invisible layer called plaque. Some plaque is removed naturally by the dog’s tongue and chewing habits (particularly when young). The plaque which remains thickens and becomes mineralised and is then visible. This is calculus, commonly called tartar. As it thickens it presses on the gums which in turn recede allowing bacteria to infect the gum. This is gingivitis.

As the oral infection increases tonsillitis and pharyngitis can also occur. In addition, the bacteria are absorbed into the blood stream and can be carried to other organs. For example, in older dogs heart infections are frequently due to bad teeth. Kidney and liver problems may also occur from the same cause.

Can tartar be prevented?

Plaque in some dogs is mineralised much quicker than others. This depends on the individual. Special canine toys and ‘chews’ as well as feeding dry food does tend to reduce tartar build-up, as does regular homecare – cleaning i.e. brushing the teeth. Today there are many products designed to reduce the problem with our pets. See handout on Dental homecare.

Will feeding dry food remove tartar?

Once tartar has formed it will be necessary to remove it with a professional scale and polish under a general anaesthetic. However, once removed dental homecare goes a long way to prevent rapid re-occurrence.

What is involved with canine scale and polish? Is it the same as with us?

The tartar and more importantly invisible plaque has to be removed completely. For this, with dogs, a general anaesthetic is necessary. If the patient is fairly elderly it is prudent to carry out routine blood tests to establish that kidney and liver function are satisfactory before the anaesthetic. Sometimes antibiotic treatment is instituted before full dental prophylaxis is carried out to try to prevent bacteria crossing over from the mouth into the blood stream. We will be happy to discuss this with you.

Under general anaesthesia scaling, both by hand and using ultrasonic cleaning equipment will be used to remove tartar, both that which is visible on the crowns of the teeth and also that which is accumulating below the gum line, since it is this which causes gum recession and subsequent infection. The teeth are then polished in order to prevent subsequent plaque build-up as much as possible. It may be necessary to carry out other procedures at the same time such as fillings, extractions etc but this will be discussed with you. Sometimes special applications such as fluoride may be indicated to decrease tooth sensitivity and strengthen enamel.

Although these procedures will be fully discussed, if you have any concerns or questions please feel free to discuss them either beforehand or when you bring your pet in. We also ask for a contact telephone number when you leave your dog so that we can discuss any additional work that may be apparent once under the anaesthetic.

Do I have to make an appointment for my dog to have a scale and polish?

Yes, for the reasons detailed previously we prefer to see the dog before an appointment is booked for dentistry. Then a general health check will be carried out and any laboratory tests arranged after discussion with you.

How can I prevent tartar accumulation after the procedure?

We will make an appointment for a check-up a few days afterwards. Detailed instructions will be given regarding home care. In the meantime it may be worthwhile getting your dog used to having the teeth brushed. Do this by using an old toothbrush dipped in his dinner or favourite food just to get him used to having the brush in his mouth. See handout on Dental homecare.

Can I use human toothpaste?

Please do not use human toothpaste on any account. These are foaming products and are not meant to be swallowed. They are universally resented by dogs.