Signs & Symptoms of Dental Disease

February is Pet Dental Health Month, which makes it a great time to talk teeth! Cats can experience a number of health-related issues which can be exacerbated by dental disease. Regular oral exams, good dental hygiene, and regular anesthetized dental cleanings are crucial to keeping on top of your cat’s overall wellness. So, what do we need to keep on the look out for? What are their signs and symptoms of dental disease? And how do we prevent them? Read on to find out! Let’s start by defining some terms used to describe dental disease.   

Gingivitis: That’s right! The same gingivitis that your dentist warns you about plagues our purr-babies as well. Gingivitis is inflammation of the tissue surrounding the teeth. Ranging from mild to severe, gingivitis is extremely common and affects cats of every age. It is considered the first stage of dental disease and, if left untreated, can lead to periodontitis. Advanced gingivitis will eventually lead to receding gums, accumulation of plaque and tartar under the gum line, and infection. 
 
Periodontitis: As gingivitis progresses, it leads to periodontitis. Plaque, tartar, and bacteria infiltrate below the gum line where it is no longer visible from the surface. Once periodontitis sets in, radiographs from inside the mouth are needed to see how the infection has wreaked havoc on the soft tissues, tooth, and jawbone.   

Signs and Symptoms of Dental Disease:

• Bad breath 
• Tooth discoloration 
• Visible tartar 
• Lip smacking 
• Tooth grinding 

• Drooling 
• Pawing at the mouth 
• Head or mouth shyness 
• Tooth loss 
• Red, swollen or bleeding gums 

• Refusal to eat certain textures of food 
• Anorexia 
• Weight loss 

Remember, cats are masters at concealing what is ailing them, so they may not show any outward signs of dental distress unless you look for them! 

How Can You Help Prevent Dental Disease?

There are several ways you can help prevent dental disease for your feline friend at home:

1. Daily tooth brushing using special finger brushes and delicious cat-friendly flavored   toothpastes offer rewards while tooth care is being performed. Be sure never to use  human toothpaste as it is not meant to be swallowed - it can be toxic to your cat. 
   
2. Daily dental wipes have additives to help smooth out dental plaque and help slow accumulations.
3. There are several treats and prescription-based diets on the market that are designed to promote healthy teeth by forcing our kitties to chew the large kernels. Greenies Dental Treats are one well-known over the counter brand.
   
4. Dr. Shea warns against the use of oral rinses and water additives as it may make your feline not want to consume their water.
5. The best way to keep your cat’s mouth in tip-top shape is to make regular wellness appointments so we can evaluate their teeth for problems and regular dental cleanings when indicated will ensure the overall wellness, health, and happiness of your cat!   

You can check out the dental products we recommend by visiting our online pharmacy. At first, your cat will most likely hate their new tooth care routine, but with patience, treats, and scritches they will come to love it!