Good oral hygiene in canines is important to prevent microscopic changes in the heart, liver, and kidneys, hence increasing the lifespan of the dog. Dental hygienists can play a role in the veterinary practice by helping pets maintain great oral health, which enhances the quality of life for both pet and owner. Although the canine oral cavity contains similar genus of bacteria as in humans, the species are different. Unlike humans, animals rarely get cavities. This is because cavities are primarily caused by the high sugar content of the human diet. However, the inflammatory disease (periodontal disease) process in canines is not much different than it is in humans. Canines have 42 permanent teeth that, like human teeth, are comprised of enamel, dentin, cementum, and pulp. The canine periodontium is composed of free and attached gingiva, alveolar bone, periodontium, and junctional epithelium. The periodontium functions to support the teeth. Porphyromonas species are the predominant genus in dogs. The most prevalent species associated with periodontal disease in dogs are Porphyromonas crevioricanis and Fusobacterium canifelinum. These gram-negative bacteria are able to migrate to other parts of the body causing systemic disease such as chronic bronchitis, pulmonary fibrosis, endocarditis, interstitial nephritis, glomerulonephritis, and hepatitis.
For more details download the attachment.
Skip to content
