4th: Home care Flashcards
How often should teeth be cleaned?
Every day
Why does plaque cause bad breath?
Produced volatile sulphur compounds
What is the best form of active plaque control?
Daily tooth brushing
What are two other methods of active plaque control?
Brushing with chlorhexidine, topical chlorhexidine
What are two examples of passive plaque control?
Chewing food or toys, topical agents via carrier
At what age should you start brushing in dogs?
6 month
At what age should you start brushing in cats?
1-2 months
Which enzymes are found in toothpaste?
The same as those found in saliva
What should a toothpaste NOT contain?
Xylitol
What are the problems with chloehexidine?
Bitter taste, can’t penetrate plaque or food or debris
What are the advantages of chlorhexidine?
Binds to teeth and gums, precipitates and inactivated if swallowed, can’t overdose
What’s the problem with dry kibble?
Doesn’t really need chewing
What’s different in special dental food?
Doesn’t shatter so cleans teeth better
Do you need special food with active home care?
NO!
How does dental food reduce calculus?
Has coating which chelates calcium
