Dental care and heart murmurs

My mom has a beautiful bobtail cat (male) that is almost 6 years old. He was born with a heart murmur, and never outgrew it. It's actually graded high, which means we need to be very careful about what kind of treatment or even meds he receives.  He has had an ongoing gingivitis issue, that seems to improve with antibiotic, but returns within weeks of finishing the meds.

My concern/question is this.  Does anyone know if there are alternatives to surgery (which he CAN NOT have due to the heart condition) so that his dental health can improve?  He drools, and sometimes while trying to eat, runs away like something really hurts.  Please let me know your thoughts. Thank you!

So he can't be put under general anesthesia right? Here are some suggestions for you:

1. Regular brushing. This won't help with the existing tartar build-up, but it will help prevent future build-up. This will need to be done with a special 'cat' toothbrush and toothpaste. http://partnersah.vet.cornell.edu/pet-owners/cat-teeth/entire-video

2. You can purchase special diets which are designed to  reduce plaque and tartar formation. One such food is Hills T/D which can be purchased through your veterinarian.

3. Feed raw chicken necks or wings.

4. Anesthesia free dental cleaning - while this is not generally recommended because it does nothing for any problems under the gum line, in your mom's cat's case, this may be the only option.

The real problem is that if there is an issue under the gum line, I don't know how it can be addressed without anesthesia.

Well, after seeing a cardiologist and animal dental specialist.....Marshmallow has undergone surgery.  He had all of his teeth removed. His heart was in strong enough condition to have the anesthesia.  He was also neutered at the same time.  He is now 3 weeks post surgery and eating almost back to normally again.

Thank GOD for good doctors.....Just wish they were closer - we travelled quite a ways for this specialist, but I would do it all over again to help him!!!

Excellent news    l'll bet it's made the world of difference for him.