FEBRUARY IS PET DENTAL HEALTH MONTH
Junior has just had a professional teeth cleaning. Now his grin sparkles and his breath smells fresh; "Mr. Fish Face" is no more! He even seems to feel better.

Dental care of our dogs and cats is one of the most overlooked aspects of pet health care. According to recent information from the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), about twothirds of pet owners fail to provide what veterinarians now consider to be essential dental care, which is why February was designated as Pet Dental Health Month. Four major veterinary organizations and Hill's Science Diet sponsor this campaign to educate consumers on the importance of good dental care for pets.

By the age of four, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), more than 85% of dogs and cats have periodontal disease, a condition in which bacteria attack the soft gum tissue. Problems begin when food particles and bacteria build up in the mouth, causing plaque formulations that accumulate on the tooth. As bacteria grow and as calcium salts are deposited, plaque then turns to tartar. If the tartar is not removed, pockets of pus may appear along the gum line and further separate the teeth from the gum, allowing more food and bacteria to accumulate. Inflamed gums, called gingivitis, can be treated and reversed through plaque removal and control.

Periodontitis, caused by increased plaque and tartar buildup affecting the tissue and structure supporting the teeth, is irreversible. Periodontitis causes red, swollen, tender or receding gums, bleeding, pain and bad breath. If left untreated, it can cause tooth loss and the subsequent infection can enter the bloodstream, potentially affecting the heart, liver and kidneys.

Puppies have 28 temporary teeth that erupt at about 3-4 weeks of age, and beginning at about 4 months of age, these baby teeth are gradually replaced by 42 permanent teeth. Kittens' teeth start coming in a little sooner, at 2-3 weeks of age, replaced at about 3-4 months with a total of 30 permanent teeth.

A number of warning symptoms can help you determine if your pet is suffering from dental disease. Bad breath, yellow-brown tartar build-up, swollen, receding or bleeding gums, broken teeth, pawing at the mouth, excessive drooling or change in eating habits or a refusal to eat can be important triggers.

To reduce the risk of pet oral disease, follow these three American Veterinary Dental Society (AVDS) suggestions. Number One is to have a routine veterinary physical examination, including a dental exam.

The second step is to schedule a professional cleaning, if your veterinarian recommends it. Under a short-acting anesthesia, accumulated tartar and calculus is removed by ultrasonic and hand scaling. Teeth needing repair are evaluated and extracted if necessary. Teeth are polished to slow down formation of new plaque, tartar and calculus. The procedure usually involves a day-long stay at the hospital.

Finally, begin a program of routine dental care at home. This might seem daunting, but with a gradual and gentle introduction, even grown dogs and cats will enjoy their daily cleaning. It's easy to learn.

After a meal, gently rub your finger along your pet's gum line, starting at the front of the mouth, moving to the back upper, then lower teeth. Gradually introduce gauze on your finger, rubbing the teeth in a circular motion. Move on to a pet toothbrush, then add pet toothpaste. Never use people toothpaste or baking soda, which can upset your pet's stomach. This whole routine should be over in 1-2 minutes; the key is to keep the sessions short and positive with lots of praise and reassurance.

Making the right choices in food, treats and dental products will also help to protect your pet's dental hygiene. Dental care and tartar control formulas in pet foods and treats are available from a number of major manufacturers. "The original smart-treat," Greenies, was developed by a couple with a serious interest in animal health and nutrition and a big dog with bad breath. According to their manufacturer, one Greenies daily almost totally prevents dental calculus accumulation. The green, toothbrush-shaped treats, which get high marks for their digestibility and palatability, reduce odor, strengthen gums and are available in sizes Petite to Jumbo.

It's February on Nantucket; we have time to learn new skills. Let's get those canine and feline choppers

gleaming for good health. I

Jan Jaeger is owner of Geronimo's, Ltd., Nantucket's pet supply and gift shop, and is a member of DWAA and CWA (Dog and Cat Writer's Associations of America). Her pets at home are Junior, a Chesapeake Bay Retriever and three cats. At the shop are the cats, Messrs. Fish and Chips, Flower bunny, Willie guinea pig and two budgies. Send e-mail to jan@geronimos.com.