Sink Your Teeth into February
12/12/06

February is National Pet Dental Month. It’s February… do you know where your pet’s mouth is?

I’m often surprised by how aghast my clients are when I show them the condition of their pet’s mouth. Of course, I look critically into the toothy end of cats and dogs numerous times every single day so it seems odd to me that everyone doesn’t do it. Here are some tips on how to look and what you’re supposed to be looking for.

First of all, train your pet to allow you to look at all of their teeth from an early age. After all, this is the end that bites. Furthermore, looking at the mouth early in life will help you recognize oral/dental problems later in their life. Most dogs and cats will grudgingly if not enthusiastically accept this exam without violence.

Second, plan on getting at least a quick look at all of their teeth. A quick peak at the ones in the front does not a proper exam make. This will require first opening the mouth wide in a well lit area. Look briefly on the inside surfaces. As disagreeable as it may sound, take a quick sniff, too. A foul odor may be indication of dental or oral disease. Next pull the lips well back with one hand and up with the other until you can see the outside surfaces of the premolars and molars, both upper and lower. Then inspect the other side. Look for brown tarter adhered to the teeth as well as red or swollen gums, lumps, foreign bodies, or missing or broken teeth. Healthy gums should be a nice, healthy pink color. Seeing a red “stripe” at the gum line is an indication of early gum disease. Healthy gums should also look flush with the surface of the tooth. If the gum line is raised where it meets the tooth it’s swollen. Now, go wash your hands!

The important thing is that you get to know the toothy end of your pets. On the other hand, if teeth and slobber are not your bag, bring’em by. We’ll be glad to hazard a look.