Pet First Aid Instructor Level 3 (VTQ) - Online Blended Part 1

190 videos, 8 hours and 59 minutes

Course Content

Mouth and Dental Problems

Video 112 of 190
5 min 42 sec
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Understanding Mouth Problems in Pets: Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions

Overview of Mouth Problems

Mouth issues affect pets of all ages, encompassing various conditions:

  • Dental Conditions: Dental disease, gum disease, tongue, and palate issues are common.
  • Species and Breed Considerations: Different species and breeds may experience specific problems.

Issues in Younger Animals

Young pets may face unique challenges, such as retained deciduous teeth:

  • Retained Baby Teeth: Baby teeth may not shed naturally, leading to potential dental problems.

Importance of Dental Care

Regular dental care is crucial to prevent and manage oral health issues:

  • Plaque and Calculus: Accumulated plaque can lead to gum infections, tooth decay, and pain.
  • Preventative Measures: Start dental care early, including brushing teeth and using oral hygiene products.

Unique Challenges in Certain Breeds

Brachycephalic breeds and their dental challenges:

  • Space Limitations: Short-faced breeds may experience tooth overcrowding and misalignment.
  • Challenges with Cleaning: Cleaning brachycephalic dogs' teeth may be difficult due to their unique mouth structure.

Identification of Serious Conditions

Signs indicating potentially serious conditions requiring veterinary attention:

  • Oral Tumours: Although rare, oral cancers can be aggressive and challenging to treat.
  • Observational Cues: Pawing at the mouth, changes in eating habits, excessive drooling, and foul odours may indicate underlying issues.

Oral Health Maintenance

Effective strategies to maintain oral health in pets:

  • Chews and Supplements: Choose dental chews and supplements carefully to promote oral hygiene without adding unnecessary calories.
  • Mouthwashes and Oral Gels: Select products designed for pets, avoiding those containing toxic substances like xylitol.