As beloved pets reach their senior years, their dental health can decline. Understanding common senior dental problems allows pet owners to provide better care. Let us explore the unique oral health challenges senior pets face.
The mouths and teeth of cats and dogs wear and tear over time. Around 80% of pets have some form of dental disease by the time they are seven years old. As pets become older, dental issues become more severe and complex. Yet, diligent dental care tailored for mature pets can make a real difference.
Several vital factors impact senior oral health. These include genetics, chronic illnesses, past trauma, and plaque accumulation over time. Smaller dog breeds also tend to have more overcrowding and misaligned teeth issues. As dogs and cats age, certain conditions may weaken their mouth’s natural defenses too.
Tartar buildup is the most typical culprit behind senior dental woes. When plaque stays on the teeth for too long, it hardens into tartar, which inflames the gums. Gingivitis and advanced periodontal disease often follow.
Pet parents should watch for these common warning signs of dental problems:
Bad breath.
Red or bleeding gums.
Loose or infected teeth.
Cysts or swelling around the mouth.
Difficulty eating or weight loss.
Pawing at the mouth.
Change in behavior, less active.
Getting prompt veterinary dental exams is crucial whenever these symptoms emerge. This allows treatment to start before matters get worse.
Various conditions can impact senior oral health. Here are explanations of some of the top issues veterinarians diagnose and ways to manage them:
Years of plaque accumulation lead to excessive tartar buildup. This causes gum irritation, tooth decay risks, and bad breath. Professional cleanings help remove hardened tartar. Ongoing home care like brushing or dental treatments reduces future plaque issues.
Plaque bacteria inflames the gums, turning into painful gingivitis. Mild cases involve some redness and minimal gum loss. Severe gum infection leads to oral pain, bleeding, and struggles to eat. Antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications, and thorough dental cleanings provide treatment. Extracting damaged teeth is sometimes necessary too.
When gum disease worsens due to aging or neglect, bone loss results. Steps like gum surgery, tooth removal, and antibiotics control the infection.