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Occasionally, cats’ teeth do not erupt in the right location, resulting in pain and poor function. Treatment options include orthodontic appliances to move the teeth, extraction, or crown amputation with restoration. Many veterinarians are comfortable delivering orthodontic care for cats. Your veterinarian may seek the advice of a board-certified veterinary dental specialist for advice or referral.
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Occasionally, dogs’ teeth do not erupt in the right location, resulting in pain and poor function. Treatment options include orthodontic appliances to move the teeth, extraction, or crown amputation with restoration. Many veterinarians are comfortable delivering orthodontic care for dogs. Your veterinarian may seek the advice of a board-certified veterinary dental specialist for advice or referral.
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A persistent tooth is a deciduous (baby) tooth that is still present when the permanent tooth erupts. When this happens, the baby tooth occupies the place in the mouth that is meant for the permanent tooth, forcing the permanent tooth to erupt at an abnormal angle or in an abnormal position. The result is crowding or malposition of the tooth, causing an abnormal bite (malocclusion). Early extraction is advised.
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A persistent tooth is a deciduous (baby) tooth that is still present when the permanent tooth erupts. When this happens, the baby tooth occupies the place in the mouth that is meant for the permanent tooth, forcing the permanent tooth to erupt at an abnormal angle or in an abnormal position. The result is crowding or malposition of the tooth, causing an abnormal bite (malocclusion). Early extraction is advised.
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Plaque forms on teeth shortly after eating and within 24 hours begins to harden, eventually turning into tartar. Tartar serves as a place for bacteria to grow, leading to gingivitis. As gingivitis worsens, periodontal disease develops, which includes inflammation, pain, and tooth loss. Prevention of plaque and tartar build-up is key. Use VOHC-accepted food and/or water additives, wipe or brush your cat's teeth daily, and have your veterinarian perform regular dental cleanings.
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Plaque forms on teeth shortly after eating and within 24 hours begins to harden, eventually turning into tartar. Tartar serves as a place for bacteria to grow, leading to gingivitis. As gingivitis worsens, periodontal disease develops, which includes inflammation, pain, and tooth loss. Prevention of plaque and tartar build-up is key. Use VOHC-accepted food and/or water additives, wipe or brush your dog's teeth daily, and have your veterinarian perform regular dental cleanings.
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Good hygiene takes practice, but if the practice starts when your dog is a puppy, it will likely be easy to keep them clean throughout their life. You can start training shortly after your puppy arrives home. Be sure to keep a calm voice and use food rewards as positive conditioning to make it a positive experience.
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Anesthesia-free dentistry is commonly offered at pet stores and grooming facilities. It is more limited than veterinary dentistry, and often a higher-stress option with more potential for injury from sharp instruments. Dental cleanings should only be performed while your pet is under anesthesia. Your veterinarian will customize your pet's anesthetic plan for your pet's overall health.
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Many pets are sensitive to being restrained for grooming. With slow progress and positive rewards, your pet can learn to accept or even enjoy having their teeth cleaned.
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Sugar gliders have become popular pets over the last decade. There are several well-known diseases or conditions that owners of sugar gliders should be aware of. Tooth decay from tartar build-up can lead to tooth root abscesses. Improper diets can lead to low blood calcium, obesity, and tooth decay. Intestinal problems may be caused by an improper diet, a bacterial infection, or a flagellated protozoal infection. It is essential to consult a veterinarian familiar with sugar gliders to select a proper diet and keep your sugar glider healthy.
