My pet : What causes dental disease? What to do ?

What causes dental disease? 

A thin film of protein from saliva, food particles, and dead cells forms on your pet’s teeth and gums. If this layer is allowed to thicken, it becomes a perfect environment for bacteria. Bacterial plaque buildup along the gum line can lead to gingivitis, or inflamed gums, and infection. Gingivitis can lead to periodontitis, an inflammation of the deeper tissues surrounding the teeth. In severe cases, periodontitis may be associated with the spread of infection to other parts of the body, including the heart and kidneys. 

What your veterinarian can do to prevent dental disease?

At your pet’s dental appointment, your veterinarian will first examine its mouth and teeth for problems such as plaque, calculus, or gingivitis; broken or missing teeth; discolored teeth; masses; or obvious periodontal disease. Then your veterinarian will anesthetize your pet to examine its mouth more thoroughly and to clean its teeth. The in-depth exam may reveal that your pet needs treatment such as tooth extraction or special therapy for advanced gum disease. Dental X-rays may also be needed to find problems that can’t be seen by visual examination. Finally, after examining and cleaning your pet’s teeth, your veterinarian will polish them and may apply fluoride.