Periodontal disease and diet in domestic pets.

Periodontal disease is the most common oral condition seen in domestic pets. In addition to the discomfort caused in the affected animal, there is strong circumstantial evidence to show that a focus of infection in the mouth may cause disease of distant organs. Consequently, prevention of periodontal disease is of paramount importance for the general health and well-being of pets. The presence of plaque on the tooth surfaces is the primary cause of periodontal disease. However, the mechanisms by which disease develops are by no means fully understood. Dietary texture does have an effect on the accumulation of dental deposits and consequently on disease development and progression. Daily toothbrushing remains the single most effective means of removing plaque, thus preventing periodontal disease. On the basis of current knowledge, the best way to maintain healthy periodontal tissues in our pets is frequent toothbrushing. The use of a dental hygiene chew and/or a diet designed to reduce dental deposits can be useful adjunctive measures and should be recommended.