Many clients mention an odor they have noticed associated
with their dog's or cat's mouth when talking to their veterinarian,
and often they believe this is a normal problem that really doesn't
have a solution. The odor the pet owner describes is the
result of tartar, the yellow-brown material that collects over time
around the base of an animal's teeth, active bacteria in the
tartar, and rotting particles of food lodged around the pet's
damaged gums and between teeth. If your pet suffers from the above
they have dental disease.
Affecting pets over
two years of age most often, this is a complex and destructive oral
inflammation and infection that destroys gums, bone and teeth, and
in the worst case, threatens your pet's life. Untreated dental
disease can affect major organ health including the heart, liver
and kidneys. Recent studies have shown regular dental
care in pets can add anywhere from 3-4 years to the average pet's
life.