Canine Dentistry For The American Pit Bull Terrier Enthusiast

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There are a variety of concerns for the American Pit Bull Terrier owner. Of these, veterinary dentistry is key in maintaining the health of the American Pit Bull Terrier. The following are common areas of concern.

Dental scaling and polishing-Dental scaling begins with a thorough inspection of the oral cavity. Most scaling procedures require the use of mechanical and/or hand scalers. Following the scaling procedure the teeth are polished to stop the speedy accumulation of plaque. The teeth are then examined for any remaining plaque. Following scaling and polishing, periodontal probes are used to check along each tooth. It is suggested that patients with pre-existing periodontal disease begin antibiotic treatment 3 days before dental scaling.

Endodontics- Endodontics is the study and treatment of the inside of the tooth, or pulp, and the tip of the tooth root. The pulp consists of nerves, blood vessels and other tissues. Dental pulp is important to the development of the tooth in the young. It provides the nutrients required to strengthen the tooth wall. The most widespread cause of endodontic disease in the American Pit Bull Terrier is a fractured or broken tooth. All teeth with visible pulp tissue should be treated by endodontic treatment or tooth extraction. Treatments include root canal, pulp capping and pulpotomy. If left untreated, infection may cause abcess. The owner may notice swelling or draining just below the eyes. These abcesses can be very painful and a source of infection which can spread to other teeth and the bloodstream.

Periodontics- Periodontics is the study and treatment of the supporting structures of the teeth. Periodontal disease is inflammation of the gum and other structures surrounding the tooth. Periodontal disease is difficult to control once it has developed; which makes prevention key. Controlling and minimizing plaque is the most important element in avoiding periodontal disease. It is the most widespread form of disease among animals and humans. By the age of three, 80% of dogs show some sign of periodontal disease. If not treated, periodontal disease can cause serious health issues.

Dental Radiography- Dental radiography assists in the treatment of complex extractions and sometimes dental restorations. Any broken or chipped tooth, or one with inflammation around the gum line, should be reported to a veterinarian for a check-up. Dental radiography can assist with early detection.

Restorative Dentistry- Restorative dentistry can repair a tooth before it is destroyed by fractures, breaks or cavities. As a tooth loses its contour it can become predisposed to periodontal disease. Covering the tooth with a crown is one choice for repairing a tooth with coronal structure loss.

Orthodontics- Orthodontics deal with the prevention and correction of abnormalities and misalignment of the teeth. The main reason for performing orthodontic correction is to lessen pain due to misaligned teeth or misalignment that will lead to endodontics or periodontal disease. If genetic abnormalities are suspected, the owner should contemplate having the animal spayed or neutered to prevent the propagation of inferior genes.

Home Care- Home care is the best way to avoid the accumulation of plaque. There are many products available to help promote proper dental hygiene for the American Pit Bull Terrier. Home care often involves finding a product that works for the owner with a busy work schedule. From dog biscuits to dog toothbrushes, your veterinarian can offer some choices.

These are a few of the dental issues a responsible American Pit Bull Terrier owner needs to know. All specific issues should be immediately reported to a veterinarian.

Canine Dentistry for the American Pit Bull Terrier Enthusiast
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