THE CAT DOCTOR -- Dentistry

Just like you, your cat can suffer from toothaches and periodontal disease. Left untreated, poor dental health can progress to cavities, abscesses - even loss of teeth. Advanced periodontal disease can produce toxins which can damage your cat's heart and kidneys. If your cat is over 2 years of age, chances are that he suffers from significant periodontal disease.

Often, the first sign of a problem is bad breath. Though not a disease itself, it is a symptom of poor dental health and should be checked as soon as possible. Check your cat's teeth for an accumulation of brown tartar or reddened gums, particularly the back teeth.

Periodontal disease starts with plaque: a combination of food debris, bacteria, and saliva. When not removed regularly, built-up plaque becomes mineralized into tartar. Tartar accelerates the process by trapping more food debris and bacteria. Gums become inflamed from toxins released by the bacteria. Eventually, dying tissue, food debris, and bacteria accumulate to create bad breath.

At The Cat Doctor, we remove plaque and tartar and polish exposed tooth surfaces. We also clean tooth roots and gingiva, a process called "root planning and curettage." This is vital to performing a complete dental cleaning. We also perform extractions and gum surgery when necessary.

Sound dental health can be maintained through a program of regular checkups and home dental care. Ask the Doctor about how to protect and extend the benefits of cleaning your cat's teeth.