Dental Month - February
February is Dental Month! Veterinarians have declared this month to pay extra attention to the teeth of our pet friends. Unfortunately, teeth are sometimes overlooked, even though dental care is so important for maintaining healthy teeth.
The dog and cat teeth
Dogs and cats are carnivores, and their teeth are designed to help them capture and consume their prey. Their sharp canines allow them to hold their prey securely, while their premolars can shred food into small pieces. The ability to grind food in the mouth is less important than the ability to swallow it easily.
Dogs and cats are born without teeth and first develop baby teeth. Over time, when they are between 3 and 4 months old, their baby teeth will begin to fall out and their adult teeth will emerge. They also develop a few extra molars. The process of changing from baby teeth to adult teeth takes several months. Some animals may experience diarrhea and an increased need to chew during this time.
In some cases, the adult teeth may already erupt while the baby teeth haven't yet fallen out. In these situations, veterinary intervention may be necessary to prevent the baby teeth from affecting the position of the teeth. Treatment options may vary depending on the specific situation. It's important to have the teething process checked if it's not progressing smoothly.
How do bad teeth develop?
Dirty teeth occur when plaque builds up in hard-to-reach places. Plaque is a soft, easily removed deposit on teeth, but if left unremoved, it turns into tartar. Tartar is harder and more difficult to remove, providing a surface where new plaque can easily adhere. Chewing and licking removes a large portion of the plaque before it turns into tartar, but some areas are more difficult to reach. Certain foods, especially starchy ones, can also contribute to plaque buildup. However, it's important to understand that even when dogs and cats eat starch-free foods, plaque can still form. Some dogs and cats are more susceptible to dental problems and have a predisposition to them, while others can be influenced by the alignment of their teeth.
Dental care for a cat
Healthy teeth are important for dogs and cats, just as they are for humans. Preventing plaque and tartar buildup is essential for preventing inflammation. Plaque forms in hard-to-reach places and can eventually turn into tartar, which easily attracts bacteria and dirt. If teeth aren't cleaned properly, unpleasant infections can develop, including gingivitis, and sometimes even tooth loss.
Fortunately, you can prevent this by keeping your teeth clean. Brushing away plaque is the first step, and it's best to start brushing at a young age. This allows you to learn the process best and prevents your teeth from getting dirty. There are various products available for brushing teeth, including wipes, small toothbrushes, and toothpaste. The brushing motion is the most important aspect, so even without toothpaste, it will help. Depending on your preference, some products are more convenient than others, and wipes or a small toothbrush offer the most control.
It's important to ease your dog or cat into brushing slowly. This process can take some time, so be patient and take your time getting your pet used to their teeth. This prevents it from becoming an unpleasant experience and allows you to integrate it into their grooming routine in a calm and relaxed manner.
