Did you know that more than 80% of pets show signs of dental disease by the age of three? Pet dental care is about much more than fresh breath. It plays a vital role in protecting your dog’s and cat’s overall health. By understanding how dental disease develops, what treatments are available, and how to prevent problems at home, you can help your pet live a longer, healthier, and pain-free life.
Unlike humans, dogs and cats rarely develop cavities because of their diet and oral pH. However, the main concern is not cavities. It is plaque. Plaque is a sticky bacterial film that, if not removed, hardens into tartar within 48 hours.
Once tartar builds up, it causes gum inflammation (gingivitis) and gum recession. Over time, this leads to periodontal disease in pets, a painful condition that can damage teeth and gums. A common early warning sign is bleeding during brushing, which means you should brush more often, not less.
Most pets should undergo a Comprehensive Oral Health Assessment and Treatment (COHAT) once a year. This procedure is much more than a standard dental cleaning. Performed under sedation at a veterinary clinic, a COHAT includes:
This thorough assessment allows veterinarians to identify issues such as fractured teeth, gingivitis, or early periodontal disease before they worsen.
Starting COHATs early, ideally by age two, about a year after permanent teeth appear, can save teeth and prevent painful extractions later in life.
In cats, there are unique dental diseases that require special attention. One of the most common is dental resorption in cats. This is a faulty biological process where the cat’s body mistakenly begins breaking down and resorbing a tooth.
What makes this condition especially challenging is that the tooth crown, the visible part, often appears normal, while dental X-rays reveal that the roots are being destroyed. Many cat owners are shocked when their cat’s tooth suddenly fractures without trauma. In most cases, extensive resorption has been silently occurring for months.
Another serious feline issue is chronic gingivostomatitis in cats. This inflammatory disease is complex, painful, and often requires highly specialized treatment protocols.
Because these conditions are invisible without X-rays and probing, they are often missed during routine examinations. Cats are very good at hiding dental pain, which makes comprehensive dental evaluations even more critical.
Understandably, many pet owners worry about anaesthesia. The truth is that modern veterinary anaesthesia is very safe, even for senior pets or those with underlying health conditions.
Modern veterinary anaesthesia protocols and safety measures, such as airway protection, careful monitoring, and pre-anaesthetic testing, are standard practice at The City Vet Clinic. These steps help ensure that dental procedures are performed as safely as possible, even for senior pets or those with underlying health conditions.
The dangers of untreated dental disease far outweigh the risks associated with anaesthesia. Neglecting dental care in dogs and cats can lead to:
In severe cases, blood loss from dental disease can even require a blood transfusion.
While professional cleanings are essential, daily home dental care for dogs and cats is the most effective way to maintain healthy teeth. Helpful options include:
Consistency is key. Daily routines prevent plaque from hardening into tartar.
Dental care is not just about fresh breath. It is about your pet’s comfort, health, and quality of life. With regular COHATs, proper home care, and attention to early warning signs, you can help your dog or cat live a healthier, happier, and pain-free life.
If you have concerns about your pet’s dental health or are unsure whether a COHAT is needed, it is always best to seek professional advice. Consulting your veterinarian or visiting The City Vet Clinic can help ensure your pet receives the appropriate care at the right time, supporting a healthier and more comfortable life.
Veterinary Doctor
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