Episode 8: Pet Dental Disease–Care and Maintenance - a podcast by Dr. Robert Gaston, DVM - OneVetMed Podcast Host and Veterinarian

Episode 8 is all about KEEPING YOUR PETS TEETH CLEAN

A continuation of Dr. Gaston’s look at nutritional deficiencies and dietary supplementation. In this episode Dr. Gaston explains the apparent contradictions between many nutritional studies which lead to so much confusion over whether supplements are good or bad. He also presents some examples of examples of nutritional deficiency to help change our perspective on what a real-world nutrient deficiency looks like. 

 A healthy mouth is important for overall health … and more pleasant when your pet doesn’t have bad breath


Chronic inflammation from gingivitis and periodontal disease is detrimental to health of people and animalsChronic inflammation can affect many areas of the body
Bacteria entering the circulation through inflamed gum tissue can adversely affect heart valves, kidneys, liver, etc.Plaque:

Many bacteria in the mouthBacteria and saliva form a slick coating (‘biofilm’) on the surface of the enamel
On a clean tooth surface, plaque begins accumulating in less than 30 minutes 

Tartar:Mineral from saliva incorporated into biofilm of plaque
Tightly bound to enamel surfaceProcess begins within 48 hours





 Gingivitis



 Periodontitis



Heavy accumulation of tartar, red inflamed gumsLoss of periodontal ligament, alveolar bone, and receding gumline


Controlling plaque and tartarSelf-cleaning architecture of dog and cat teeth diminish plaque and tartar accumulation
Processed pet foods contribute to plaque and tartar accumulationCanned – soft consistency
Dry kibble-type foods – brittleFibrous/abrasive food stuffs assist in self-cleaning action

Scrub surface of tooth to gum lineBones, turkey necks, chicken necks
Vegetables – carrots, celery, broccoli stemsOther factors influencing gum health

Oral FlorapH
Raw dietUnknowns and inconsistent results


Size of dogsBrushing

BrushManual
Motorized spin brushDentifrice

No XylitolNo Flouride











Hand scalingGeneral anesthesia with ultrasonic scaling and polishing

Thorough scaling and examinationExtractions and radiographs as needed
Examination and evaluation of health or specific concerns that may affect safety of anesthesiaPre-anesthetic blood work
Age limitations? 

Further episodes of The OneVetMed Podcast with Dr Robert Gaston

Further podcasts by Dr. Robert Gaston, DVM - OneVetMed Podcast Host and Veterinarian

Website of Dr. Robert Gaston, DVM - OneVetMed Podcast Host and Veterinarian