|
Peridontal Disease
More than 85% of dogs and cats older than four years have periodontal disease. Periodontal disease starts with the formation of plaque, a transparent, adhesive fluid composed of bacteria. Plaque starts forming within eight hours after a thorough dental cleaning. When plaque is not removed, mineral salts, in the saliva, precipitate forming hard calculus. Calculus is irritating to gingival tissue. By-products of the bacteria "eat away" the tooth's support structures eventually causing pain and periodontal disease. 
Signs your Pet is Suffering from Dental Disease...
■ Bad breath ■ Red gums (healthy gums are a pink, shrimp-like color) ■ Pus oozing from gums ■ Facial swelling ■ Yellow or brownish buildup on the teeth ■ Pain Another clue that your pet may be in pain is if it goes to the food bowl and backs away as if scared or drops food from its mouth. |