Release Date: February 2010

Healthy teeth and gums are at the core of the robust physical condition for our pets. To highlight the necessity of maintaining excellent pet dental care, the month of February has been set aside as National Pet Dental Health Month.

Dental wellness carries the identical importance to our furry companion just as it is to us! Therefore, why not set aside time this month to have your pet's oral fitness checked out by your veterinarian. This is the perfect time for that annual dental examination and cleaning. Sparkling teeth accompanied by fresh breath is a great reward for both pet and owner.

According to Dr. Henry Childers, DVM, the president of the American Veterinary Medical Association, "Oral disease is the most frequently diagnosed health problem for pets. Just as the public has come to realize that their own oral health is linked to their overall health, veterinarians want people to understand that dental health care is essential to maintaining the overall health and well-being of the family pet."

Periodontal Disease is one of the most common occurring conditions, especially in our older pets. The disease begins from to accumulation of plaque that forms on the teeth after eating. This is largely responsible for resulting in "stinky breath" which often becomes unbearable. If the buildup of plaque is permitted to continue unchecked, gingivitis results with gums becoming red and inflamed.

Left untreated, gums recede, teeth become unstable with tooth loss and abscess formation occurring. Due to the abundance of bacteria forming on teeth and gums, which is highly accessible to the pets blood stream, internal organs can become infected, which may cause systemic conditions such as kidney failure, liver and heart disease.