{"id":31,"date":"2024-02-08T12:03:09","date_gmt":"2024-02-08T17:03:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.jenisonanimalhospital.com\/blog\/?p=31"},"modified":"2024-03-14T12:12:34","modified_gmt":"2024-03-14T17:12:34","slug":"signs-and-prevention-tooth-decay-in-dogs-and-cats","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.jenisonanimalhospital.com\/blog\/signs-and-prevention-tooth-decay-in-dogs-and-cats\/","title":{"rendered":"Signs and Prevention: Tooth Decay in Dogs and Cats"},"content":{"rendered":"
\n
\"Dog<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

The approach to a pet\u2019s overall wellness is multifaceted. In addition to vaccinations, parasite prevention, nutrition, and behavioral support, a pet\u2019s dental care is a high priority. Without an annual professional cleaning or routine brushing at home, tooth decay in dogs and cats is a very real possibility. Since the majority of adult and senior pets have some form of dental disease, taking extra care of the teeth and gums is an important part of preventive veterinary care. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Periodontal Disease in Pets<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Periodontal disease is characterized by inflammation and infection of the gums, the supportive tissues around the teeth. When bacteria enters the mouth, it forms a plaque on the surface of the teeth. Over time, the plaque calcifies into tartar. Typically, tartar builds up on the gumline, exposing the gum to infection and inflammation (a condition referred to as gingivitis). <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Noticing Bad Breath<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

An obvious sign that a pet has the first stage of periodontal disease is, of course, bad breath. Worse than the universal \u201cdoggie breath\u201d or \u201ckitty mouth,\u201d halitosis is a symptom of declining oral health. Left alone, halitosis only gets worse with time. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Periodontal disease is preventable, but if it develops beyond this first stage, it can only be managed. Periodontal disease can affect the health of the liver, heart, and kidneys, and must be treated to preserve a pet\u2019s optimal wellness. Other signs of gum problems and tooth decay in dogs and cats include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n