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The Sun
2 days ago
- Health
- The Sun
Mum's shock after learning real reason behind ‘unbearable' gum pain and the signs to look out for
A MUM was left surprised after her unusual dental complaint turned out to be a sign she had started the menopause. Angela Cook, 49, started to experience "unbearable" gum pain whenever she ate and couldn't understand why. 1 The mother-of-one endured "intense" gum ache, particularly around her molars, when eating hard or chewy foods. Enjoying her favourite treats – humbug sweets, sugar cane and apples – was "impossible", and soon eating everyday meals became just as agonising. Given the nature of the problem, she visited a dentist – opting to go private and was told the discomfort was likely due to ageing. Angela had been experiencing typical menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes and mood changes 12 months prior to this in 2021 – at the age of 45, but she hadn't made the connection. It was only when she happened to overhear a discussion on the radio about menopause and gum health that everything "clicked into place" – and she realised she was going through the menopause. She shared her story after a poll of 1,000 women yet to go through menopause, commissioned by CanesMeno, found 19 per cent consider it to be a mystery. Signs of ageing There are 50 recognised signs of the ageing process - including dental problems, a symptom 89 per cent aren't aware can develop during the climacteric. Hormonal fluctuations, particularly a drop in oestrogen during menopause, can cause gums to become inflamed, bleed and ache, according to experts. Determined to find a solution, Angela started researching online for possible treatments and came across "gum massaging" on YouTube ≠ gently rubbing the gums underneath each tooth with her fingers after flossing, once a day. She started doing it daily in June 2022 and noticed an "instant difference". Angela, a psychologist from Banbury, Oxfordshire, said: "I never had any tooth or gum problems before the menopause – dentists would tell me how healthy my teeth were. "So, this was a massive surprise. "It left me in great pain and apprehensive about eating food that had to be chewed, so I was desperate for anything that would help take away the pain I was in, even if it was a little. "I felt relieved when I came across the radio segment – I didn't feel so alone.' Fiona Phillips opens up about the heartbreaking real reason behind marriage troubles after 'blaming menopause' Due to the massaging, over time, her symptoms gradually improved, and Angela still massages her gums weekly to maintain her gum health and prevent flare-ups. While she still experiences occasional aching, the episodes are far less frequent and no longer dominate her life. She also still experiences hot flashes, "few and far between", as well as occasional night sweats. 'The risk of gum ache curbs my cravings' Angela, married to Matthew Cook, 57, a builder, and mum to daughter, Dee, 14, said: "I still experience aching from time to time, but not so much. "I miss eating humbug sweets and sugar cane, but the risk of having the gum ache, like before, curbs my cravings." It comes after further research by CanesMeno of 1,000 females who are going or have been through menopause found 52 per cent didn't feel prepared for the ageing process. With 52 per cent of all women polled – both those who have and haven't experienced the ageing process believing more needs to be done to educate women on it. Similarly, 48 per cent think the wider public needs to be better educated on the topic, while 35 per cent wish they'd been taught about menopause at school, university, or college. Carried out through OnePoll, the study found 21 per cent of everyone polled believes the menopause is a taboo subject. And 75 per cent of those who have gone through the ageing process admitted they avoided talking about their symptoms with others. Angela added: "It wasn't until I heard it discussed openly that I realised it was even a thing. It made me feel validated – there was a reason for what I was experiencing.' A spokesperson for CanesMeno, which has launched a training programme to educate Boots pharmacists on the signs of the menopause, said: 'It's still somewhat of a mystery for many women – perhaps even for those who have experienced it. 'People will have their perceptions of what they think the menopause is, but it impacts those going through it many ways, way beyond what they might expect. 'And this study highlights some of these ways – sadly there is a bit of a knowledge gap and we want to change that.' When does the perimenopause start? The perimenopause is a natural stage of life. In most people it will happen naturally between the ages of 45 and 55 and last for a few months to several years. It can even last a decade or more. During the perimenopause, your hormone levels change and your ovaries start to produce fewer eggs. Once you haven't had a period for 12 months or more, you've officially reached the menopause. Some people start experiencing the perimenopause before they are 40. This can be as a result of medical treatments, such as surgery to remove the ovaries, but sometimes there's no cause. If you think you're experiencing the perimenopause before you're 40 then you must speak to your doctor. Source: Bupa
Forbes
6 days ago
- Health
- Forbes
Yes, You Should Brush Your Teeth For 2 Minutes, Twice A Day. Here's Why.
Maintaining good oral hygiene practices is key to keeping your teeth and gums healthy—and spending two minutes brushing twice a day is a crucial part of any routine. This may seem like a simple mandate, but there are several factors to keep in mind when you're brushing for optimal results: Technique, toothpaste, pacing and more will make a difference. The ultimate goal of brushing your teeth is to remove bacteria, which can otherwise build up to cause decay and disease. '[For] oral disease, whether that's cavities or whether that's gum disease, reducing the amount of bacterial load in the mouth is a critical piece of that prevention measure,' says Jennifer Cullen, clinical assistant professor at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry. We spoke to three dental experts to learn the best tips and tricks for keeping your teeth sparkling ... More clean. Illustration: Forbes / Photos: Retailers To help you make the most of your two-minute toothbrushing sessions—and learn why we should brush at this cadence in the first place—I spoke to three dental experts to get their advice: Mark S. Wolff, DDS, PhD, Morton Amsterdam dean and professor of the division of restorative dentistry at the University of Pennsylvania; Jennifer Cullen, clinical assistant professor at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry, and director of the division of dental hygiene; and Matthew Messina, DDS, associate professor, clinical and clinic director at the Ohio State University College of Dentistry, and ADA spokesperson. These experts shared their insights on how to brush most effectively, and why brushing teeth is important, to help you stay motivated. Here are the tips and techniques they recommend. Multiple clinical studies show that brushing for two minutes is key to removing plaque so you can keep your teeth and gums healthy. 'There's clinical studies that have shown two minutes of brushing to be highly effective in reducing [tooth] decay,' says Dr. Wolff. A key reason for the two-minute mandate is so you can actually reach the surface of every tooth in the mouth with your brush, and tackle all of the plaque on your teeth. Cullen explained that there are multiple layers of plaque on teeth, and that the longer you brush, the better you can get to the bottom-most, stickiest layers. The experts I spoke with maintained that thoroughly brushing the surface of every tooth takes time: You want to make sure you get the cheek and tongue surface and the back and front of each one. Wolff advises softly placing the bristles right at the gumline to start brushing. How can you ensure you're getting each tooth? 'Brush methodically, not randomly,' says Wolff. Approaching each quadrant of the mouth in 30-second intervals can help you hit all the areas of your mouth, too. Some of the best electric toothbrushes we've tested, like the Oral-B iO Deep Clean + Protect, our pick for the best smart electric toothbrush, and the Philips Sonicare 9900 Prestige, our pick for best splurge electric toothbrush, not only buzz at 30-second intervals to move you along but also have apps that track your brushing to show you any spots you're missing. Let Fluoride Do Its Job The other crucial reason to brush for two minutes twice a day is to let the fluoride in toothpaste take effect to help prevent tooth decay. Cullen notes that hygienists and dentists recommend that people use some sort of fluoridated toothpaste, and that 'there is evidence for the benefits of that increased duration with respect to fluoride delivery.' The experts I spoke to said that fluoride is key to protecting tooth enamel, and that longer exposure to fluoride makes it harder for bacteria to build back up on the tooth. 'It's actually making the enamel less soluble to acids,' says Wolff. Many of the best electric toothbrushes have timers to track your brushing. Some, like the Oral-B iO Deep Clean + Protect, display time clearly on the brush's LED interface and offer cartoon faces (ranging from a frown to starry-eyed smile) to indicate where you stand with your time goal. This brush also works with an app to help you track time, and uses a buzzer in 30-second increments to cue you to move around your mouth. Other brushes use an automatic shutoff feature, or similar buzzing notifications, to let you know when you've reached your full two minutes. Timers And Apps There are multiple ways to time your brushing. Cullen suggests a sand timer for kids or patients with special needs. Dr. Messina recommends using a timer on your phone. He also notes there are apps that are especially helpful for kids to guide them to brush around their mouth over the course of two minutes. Break It Up By Quadrant To break up the two minutes, you can also count for 30 seconds while brushing each quadrant of your mouth, if you don't have an electric toothbrush that does this automatically. This can help keep track of time while making sure you're getting to every tooth. Sing A Song Both Cullen and Messina suggest one way to track your time is to either sing or play a favorite song that lasts around two minutes. This can help gamify your brushing—and make it more enjoyable, a technique that can be especially helpful for kids. Be Gentle Though it's important to be thorough while brushing, experts advise against brushing too hard. 'You don't want to wear the teeth away by scrubbing like this is a floor,' says Wolff. Brushing too hard can actually damage your teeth and gums. To avoid that, opt for a brush with soft bristles. Many electric toothbrushes also have pressure sensors to indicate if you're brushing too aggressively, or if you're hitting the sweet spot. In our electric toothbrush tests, we preferred the easy-to-see sensor on the Oral-B iO Deep Clean + Protect, which uses a light around the neck of the toothbrush to flash green, white or red to indicate pressure. Other brushes can have pressure sensors that will buzz or light up to tell you to ease up. Don't Forget To Floss Brushing is just one key component of a great oral hygiene routine; it can't act alone. Flossing is crucial to reach every surface of the tooth to remove food and debris. 'Brushing itself only reaches 60% of your tooth surfaces,' says Cullen. 'Everywhere a tooth touches another tooth, that toothbrush can't get to.' She recommends floss or an adaptive aid to help get into those hard-to-reach spaces. We've also tested the best water flossers at Forbes Vetted, and these devices can help reach in between teeth to clear debris. The Waterpik Aquarius Water Flosser won as best water flosser overall in our tests. Water flossers may be especially useful for people with orthodontia or those who have difficulty using traditional dental floss. Consider The Swish, And The Social Brush All the experts I spoke to recommended brushing at least twice a day—but what if you want, or need, to brush more frequently? In general, that's fine, and some people may need to brush more frequently due to medical conditions or orthodontia. Wolff advises being mindful of not brushing too hard, however. 'There's nothing wrong with too much or too frequent brushing, as long as you do it gently and you don't wear away the gums [or] damage the tooth with a hard toothbrush,' he says. He also warned of compensating with frequency versus technique. 'Doing it three times a day badly does not make you less likely to get cavities or less likely to have gum disease,' he says. If you don't have access to a sink or brush after every meal, there are still easy things you can do to help keep your mouth cleaner. Cullen and Messina both advise swishing your mouth with water after eating to neutralize the pH of the mouth (when the environment of the mouth is more acidic, it becomes more hospitable to cavity-causing bacteria). Messina also recommends what he calls a 'social brush,' or a quicker brush to clear the mouth of food—for example, after eating a pungent meal like a hamburger with onions— that's less thorough than your twice-daily toothbrushing geared toward deeper cleaning and hitting every surface of the tooth. Remember That Every Patient Has Different Needs Though brushing your teeth for two minutes twice a day is the standard, every patient has different needs; some people may need to brush more frequently or require assistance with brushing. Cullen spoke to how a 10-year-old who isn't snacking frequently or drinking sweet drinks could brush just twice a day, while someone with Parkinson's disease may need to brush more frequently and with assistance. Sometimes electric toothbrushes can help people brush more effectively, but other assistive devices, like a universal cuff, can also help with holding a toothbrush independently. Cullen also said that caregivers may need to give patients breaks or adjust the location for brushing. 'If you're a caregiver, maybe you're doing it at the kitchen table,' she says. 'Maybe you're able to brush for 60 seconds and that person needs a break.' Check in with your hygienist, dentist and care team for the most relevant advice for your needs. Some Brushing Is Better Than None Building new habits like brushing your teeth for two minutes twice a day takes time, and starting a new routine can be intimidating. Messina notes that some patients can feel overwhelmed by the guilt of not brushing enough, and encourages people to do the best they can. Brushing isn't all or nothing; even if you can't reach the full two minutes, Messina says it's still helpful to brush in the first place, no matter how long the duration. 'I know if you start small, that you'll realize how much better it feels and then you'll do more and more,' he says. And remember, brushing is key to overall health. 'It seems like such a small thing to brush your teeth twice a day, but I think people should be encouraged that they're really making a big impact on their overall health when they do that small thing,' says Cullen.
Associated Press
22-07-2025
- Health
- Associated Press
Legacy Dental Expands Services to Offer Customized Oral Appliances for Obstructive Sleep Apnea
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah, July 22, 2025 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Legacy Dental is excited to announce a significant enhancement to its services: the introduction of customized oral appliances designed specifically for managing obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). This innovative treatment option is now available for patients seeking effective solutions for sleep-related breathing disorders, marking a substantial advancement in dental and sleep health. Obstructive sleep apnea is a common condition affecting millions of individuals globally, characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep. These interruptions can result in severe health complications, including cardiovascular issues, increased stroke risk, high blood pressure, and daytime fatigue, adversely affecting overall quality of life. Traditionally, Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machines have been the standard treatment for OSA; however, many patients find these devices uncomfortable and difficult to use consistently. Recognizing this gap in patient care, Legacy Dental now offers a comfortable and effective alternative through its customized oral appliances. 'Our mission at Legacy Dental is to provide comprehensive dental care that meets the unique needs of our patients,' said Dr. Jonathan Campbell, DDS. 'With the introduction of these oral appliances, we are proud to offer a personalized solution that can significantly enhance the quality of life for those suffering from sleep apnea. We understand that each patient is unique, and our approach reflects that by tailoring our solutions to fit individual needs.' The newly available oral appliances are custom-fitted to each patient, ensuring optimal comfort and efficacy. These devices work by gently repositioning the jaw and tongue to keep the airway open during sleep, thereby reducing the frequency of apneas and improving overall sleep quality. Designed with the latest technology and materials, these oral appliances ensure durability and comfort, making them an ideal choice for those struggling with traditional CPAP therapy. Patients interested in these customized oral appliances will undergo a comprehensive evaluation, including a thorough assessment of their dental health and review of any information provided by their physician. This evaluation allows the dental team at Legacy Dental to create a personalized treatment plan that addresses the specific needs of each patient, ensuring the best possible outcome. In addition to providing oral appliances, Legacy Dental is committed to educating patients about the importance of sleep health and the impact of obstructive sleep apnea on overall well-being. The dental team will work closely with patients to monitor their progress and make necessary adjustments to their treatment plan. For more information about the new oral appliance options or to schedule a consultation, please visit or call (801) 278-4223. Legacy Dental invites the community to take the first step toward better sleep health and overall wellness. About Legacy Dental: Legacy Dental is a leading dental practice located in Salt Lake City, dedicated to providing high-quality dental care in a comfortable and welcoming environment. With a focus on innovative treatments and patient-centered care, Legacy Dental strives to enhance the smiles and health of its community. The practice offers a wide range of services, from routine dental check-ups to advanced restorative and cosmetic procedures, ensuring that every patient receives the care they deserve. For more information about Legacy Dental and its services, visit Contact: Legacy Dental Phone: (801) 278-4223 Email: [email protected] LOGO link for media: NEWS SOURCE: Legacy Dental Keywords: Dentistry, Legacy Dental, dental practice, Obstructive Sleep Apnea, Oral Appliances, Dr. Jonathan Campbell DDS, SALT LAKE CITY, Utah This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (Legacy Dental) who is solely responsibile for its accuracy, by Send2Press® Newswire. Information is believed accurate but not guaranteed. Story ID: S2P127940 APNF0325A To view the original version, visit: © 2025 Send2Press® Newswire, a press release distribution service, Calif., USA. RIGHTS GRANTED FOR REPRODUCTION IN WHOLE OR IN PART BY ANY LEGITIMATE MEDIA OUTLET - SUCH AS NEWSPAPER, BROADCAST OR TRADE PERIODICAL. MAY NOT BE USED ON ANY NON-MEDIA WEBSITE PROMOTING PR OR MARKETING SERVICES OR CONTENT DEVELOPMENT. Disclaimer: This press release content was not created by nor issued by the Associated Press (AP). Content below is unrelated to this news story.
Yahoo
21-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Hundreds of Nashville-Area Kids Receive Free Dental Screenings, Shoes, and More at 2025 Kids Dental Day
Delta Dental of Tennessee, Nashville Sounds, and cityCURRENT team up with local partners to promote health and confidence for the new school year NASHVILLE, Tenn., July 21, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Hundreds of children from across Middle Tennessee recently received free dental screenings, new shoes, hygiene kits, books, and more during the 4th annual Kids Dental Day at First Horizon Park. Hosted by Delta Dental of Tennessee, the Nashville Sounds, and cityCURRENT, the event brought together 250 children and over a dozen community organizations to provide essential health services and school readiness resources to area youth. "This is one of our favorite days of the year," said Adam English, General Manager and Chief Operating Officer of the Nashville Sounds. "First Horizon Park is meant to be a place where families can come together, and thanks to our incredible partners, we're able to make a real impact for hundreds of kids in our community." Tooth decay is the most common chronic condition of childhood, and poor oral health can affect a child's quality of life, performance at school, and success later in life. According to the CDC's 2024 Oral Health Surveillance Report, half of all children aged 6 to 9 have had cavities in their primary or permanent teeth. Left untreated, these cavities can lead to pain, infections, and missed school days - and affect a child's ability to eat, speak, play, and learn. Events like Kids Dental Day help bridge the gap in access to care and put children on a path toward healthier, more confident futures. "We're always grateful to the Sounds and our many community partners and volunteers who come together to make Kids Dental Day such a success," said Jeff Ballard, President and CEO of Delta Dental of Tennessee. "It's a fun, high-impact day that helps make care more accessible - and reminds kids that their health and happiness matter." The 250 participating kids arrived throughout the day from summer camps and community programs that coordinated with event organizers, including Preston Taylor Ministries and local chapters of the Boys and Girls Club of Middle Tennessee. Kids received free dental screenings and dental cleanings (as needed), a new pair of socks and shoes, snacks, and a new book. About 25% of children receiving cleanings also had signs of developing cavities that the dental team was able to treat with silver diamine fluoride (SDF), a non-invasive treatment used to stop the growth of tooth decay. "Helping kids access quality dental care is at the heart of our mission," said Dr. Michele Blackledge-Polk, Director of Oral Health at Neighborhood Health. "Good oral health habits start early and set the foundation for lifelong health, confidence, and success. One of the most powerful aspects of events like Kids Dental Day is our ability to assess the state of children in the community by having limited exams and education on brushing and flossing. Silver Diamine Fluoride is a new tool that works by preventing the progression of cavities. When properly used, we can reduce the need for drilling and hopefully the number of visits required to treat the tooth. This event is all about meeting families where they are and making oral health approachable and fun." The day also featured educational stations and activities to engage children as they prepare to return to school in the coming weeks. Book'em brought their Book Bus, giving every child the opportunity to pick out a free book to take home. The American Heart Association provided hands-only CPR demonstrations, and the Adventure Science Center hosted STEM activities. PBS Kids on Nashville PBS gave out temporary tattoos featuring characters from the Delta Dental and Smile180 Foundation supported oral health education programming. "For many of our families, back-to-school can be extremely time-consuming and stressful," said Dwight Johnson, Executive Director at Preston Taylor Ministries. "Kids Dental Day helps to alleviate a lot of that burden with care, joy, and community. Our students left with healthier smiles, fresh shoes, and a boost of confidence for the year ahead." 130 volunteers from cityCURRENT and other community groups helped make the day run smoothly ─ from assisting families and guiding kids through activities to distributing books, snacks, and dental kits. "Kids Dental Day is a shining example of what can happen when the business community comes together with a shared purpose," said Kelly Meyers, Nashville Market President, cityCURRENT. "It's more than a day of service ─ it's a reminder to each child that they matter, and we're here to support them." Additional partners helped to make the event possible behind the scenes. Signature Transportation provided buses to bring kids to and from summer programs and camps across the region, ensuring that transportation was never a barrier to participation. Volunteers stayed energized thanks to snacks and drinks donated by Kroger, as well as coffee and doughnuts donated by Dunkin' Donuts. Dental supplies were donated by Henry Schein and equipment was provided by Hope Smiles. To learn more about Kids Dental Day, visit: View source version on Contacts Ann Waller Curtis /
Yahoo
14-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Vet warns ‘damage is irreversible if left untreated': 8 signs your cat has gingivitis – and how to prevent it becoming dental disease
When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. Gingivitis in cats is one of the most common dental problems seen in general practice, yet it's often misunderstood or missed by owners until the condition becomes severe. As a small animal vet with 14 years of experience, I've helped lots of cats with dental disease, and gingivitis is almost always where it starts. Gingivitis is an inflammatory condition affecting the gums, and while it may seem mild at first, it can lead to significant discomfort and more serious oral health issues if left untreated. The good news is, with the right management and care, it can often be controlled and even reversed. In this guide, I'll walk you through everything you need to know about gingivitis in cats – from the early warning signs to the best treatment options – with practical advice from clinical experience. Whether you're a first-time cat owner or a seasoned pro, this guide will help you protect your feline friend's pearly whites. Gingivitis in cats is the inflammation of the gums (gingiva) that surround and support the teeth. It's typically caused by a build-up of plaque – a soft, sticky film made up of bacteria, saliva, and food particles – on the surface of your cat's teeth. If not regularly removed, this plaque hardens into tartar (calculus), which further irritates the gums and worsens the inflammation. In the early stages, gingivitis may just affect the gumline. Owners may notice redness, swelling, and bleeding around the teeth. But if left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, where the structures supporting the teeth, like ligaments and bone, become damaged. This stage is often irreversible and can lead to tooth loss. Some cats also develop a more severe form of gum disease called stomatitis, where inflammation extends deeper into the mouth and causes widespread pain. Cats are incredibly stoic creatures, and they often hide signs of pain. That's why gingivitis can easily go unnoticed until it's quite advanced. Look out for these common signs: Red, swollen gums, especially around the base of the teeth Bleeding gums are often noticed during eating or when chewing on toys Bad breath (halitosis) is a telltale sign of oral bacteria Drooling or saliva with traces of blood Difficulty eating, chewing on one side, or dropping food Pawing at the mouth or rubbing the face Decreased appetite or weight loss Changes in behavior, such as being more withdrawn or irritable There are several underlying causes of gingivitis in cats, and often it's a combination of factors. Here are the most common: There are several underlying causes of gingivitis in cats, and often it's a combination of factors. Here are the most common: Dental plaque and tartar: These are the number one causes. If plaque isn't removed through regular cleaning, it calcifies into tartar, leading to inflammation and infection. Feline chronic gingivostomatitis (FCGS): This is an immune-mediated condition where the cat's immune system overreacts to plaque, causing severe and painful inflammation in the gums and mouth. Viral infections: Viruses like feline calicivirus, feline herpesvirus, and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) can all contribute to gingivitis and stomatitis. Luckily, some of these can be vaccinated against. Vaccinations are very important for our pets. Tooth resorption: A common and painful condition in cats where the tooth structure breaks down, exposing sensitive dentin and leading to secondary gum inflammation. Poor oral hygiene: Just like in humans, cats need regular dental care. Lack of brushing, dental diets, or professional cleaning leads to rapid plaque accumulation. Genetic predisposition: Some breeds, such as Abyssinians, Siamese, and Persians, are more prone to dental issues, including gingivitis. Diet: Soft or wet food diets don't provide the abrasive action needed to help keep teeth clean, which can contribute to plaque build-up. The treatment for gingivitis in cats depends on the underlying cause and severity. Here's how it is typically managed: Professional dental cleaning: A full dental scale and polish performed under general anaesthesia is usually the first step. This allows your vet to remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line and assess each tooth for disease. Tooth extraction: If teeth are loose, damaged, or contributing to chronic inflammation, they may need to be removed. Cats can do very well without several or even all of their teeth, and it often significantly improves their quality of life. Medical treatment: Anti-inflammatory medication (such as corticosteroids or NSAIDs), antibiotics, or immune-modulating drugs may be used, particularly in cases like FCGS. Your vet will tailor a treatment plan based on your cat's individual needs. Ongoing dental hygiene: At-home care is crucial for long-term success. This includes keeping your cat's teeth clean, brushing your cat's teeth with a pet-safe toothpaste, offering dental chews or diets, and regular vet checks. Mild cases of gingivitis can sometimes be managed at home with daily tooth brushing and dental-friendly products. However, once tartar is present, it can only be removed professionally. Never attempt DIY dental scaling – this can cause pain and damage the teeth. Home care is essential after professional treatment to prevent recurrence. There are many products that help, including: Pet toothbrushes and pet toothpaste, learning how to brush your cat's teeth can make a huge difference. Dental diets (like Hill's t/d) Water additives Dental gels and sprays Soft Cat Toothbrush Set | AmazonThis gentle yet effective toothbrush kit is ideal for both cats and small dogs, and made from food-grade silicone. The ergonomic design ensures easy handling, while the soft bristles provide a comfortable brushing experience. It is a practical and pet-friendly addition to your grooming Deal If left untreated, gingivitis in cats can progress to periodontal disease, leading to: Chronic pain Tooth loss Oral infections that can spread to other parts of the body Poor general health due to inflammation Weight loss and reduced quality of life Increased veterinary costs in the long term Early intervention is always best. Even if your cat isn't showing obvious signs, regular dental checks can help catch issues before they become serious. Read more here on fascinating facts about cat's teeth or four ways to prevent gingivitis that I'd wish I'd known sooner Edited by Megan Milstead. This page was last updated in July 2025 by Emma Chandley.
