·         Adult dogs have 42 permanent teeth and adult cats 30 permanent teeth.

·         By the age of three, 80% of dogs and 70% of cats are exhibiting signs of gum disease.  Symptoms include yellow and brown tartar along the gum line, red inflamed gums and persistent bad breath.

·         Small breed dogs are more likely to develop periodontal disease than large breed dogs.

·         Cats and dogs can get cavities.  Although it is rare, due to the fact their diet is not high in decay causing sugars.

·         Studies show that feeding your pet hard kibble will help keep plaque from accumulating on the teeth.

·         Oral disease is a common finding in cats infected with the Feline Leukemia Virus, Feline Immunodeficiency Virus and the Feline Calicivirus.

·         Facial swelling below the eye may be due to an infected upper 4^th premolar.

·         Sneezing and nasal discharge may be due to an infection or fracture of an upper K9 tooth.

·         Severe periodontal disease that is not treated can lead to problems in other parts of the body including the heart and the kidneys.

·         You should only use toothpaste on your pet that is made for pets.  Human toothpaste isn’t meant to be swallowed and your pet can’t spit it out. 

·         The most common reason why dogs fracture their teeth is by chewing on objects that are too hard for them (ex: metal fences, bones, rocks).

·         There are Veterinary Dental Specialists that can place crowns, replacement teeth and even braces on your pet.

·         Brushing daily or at least 3 times a week is the best way to prevent periodontal disease.

Your pet is never too old for tooth brushing.  In fact, the older your pet gets, the more important it is