Analysis of canine dental diseases in a veterinary clinic X in Vilnius 2017 – 2018

Lithuania University of Health Sciences, Veterinary Academy, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. L. Kriaučeliūnas Small Animal Clinic. Master thesis consists of 51 pages with 43 pictures, 4 tables and 1 annex, as well as 54 references. The aim of this study was to analyze causes of canine dental plaque formation and methods of treatment in veterinary clinic “X”. Qualitative statistic method was applied in the thesis. The survey was performed in two stages. An anonymous questionnaire was composed to find out what dental care and prophylaxis owners used for their dogs, as well as treatment options of dental diseases in veterinary clinic “X”. Eighty-six questionnaires were received. According to the survey 44% (n=38) of dogs were from 1 to 5 years old. Moreover 55% (n=47) of them were females and 45% (n=39) were male dogs. Middle size dogs combined the largest group of 40% (n=34), 65% (n=56) were intact males and females. Less than half of the dogs (45%) were fed by mixed dry and wet diet while 61% (n=66) occasionally get various treats for dental care. Majority of dogs (68%) had never experienced a dental cleaning procedure and 59% (n=51) of dogs had never been for a dental check-up. 40% (n=34) of the survey participants contacted the veterinary clinic because of other conditions than dental diseases. 16% (n=14) of the owners complained about an unpleasant breath. 17% (n=15) purposefully visited the clinic for a dental cleaning and polishing procedure. At least one tooth has been extracted for 16% (n=14) of dogs. Another survey revealed the influence of the sex, age, breed and size of breed for the dental plaque formation. 770 dogs have been analyzed. Two hundred ten of them were brought due to dental diseases, of which dental plaque was the most common 46% (n=97) complaint. 27 % of dogs (n=210) accounted for various dental diseases while 13% (n=97) were diagnosed with dental plaque. Most commonly dental plaque affected from 6 to 10 years old small breed dogs 66% (n=64). The most often affected dogs were Yorkshire terriers 55% (n=29). Sex had no impact on dental plaque formation