Oral health is crucial for your pet’s overall well-being. Yet, periodontal disease remains a common and frequently overlooked condition that can lead to serious complications if not addressed promptly.
Clinical Signs of Pet Periodontal Disease
Early detection is essential to prevent disease progression. Common symptoms include:
- Persistent bad breath
- Redness or inflamed gums (gingivitis)
- Visible tartar accumulation on teeth
- Oral pain causing pets to rub their mouth
- Difficulty eating accompanied by excessive drooling
- Loose teeth
Potential Consequences of Neglected Dental Care
Ignoring dental care can result in several issues. Initially, gingivitis can cause significant discomfort. Oral bacteria can then enter the bloodstream, potentially affecting vital organs such as the liver, kidneys, or heart. Additionally, tooth loss or dental abscesses commonly occur.
Stages of Periodontal Disease Progression in Pets
Stage 0: Healthy Mouth
At this stage, gums are healthy, pink or pigmented, and firmly attached to the bone.
Stage 1: Reversible Gingivitis
Initial signs include bad breath, plaque formation, and gum redness. Fortunately, preventive measures can reverse the condition at this stage.
Stage 2: Mild Periodontitis
Plaque begins infiltrating beneath the gums, causing minor dental attachment loss (less than 25%). This stage is irreversible for affected teeth.
Stages 3 and 4: Moderate to Severe Periodontitis
These advanced stages involve significant bone destruction, severe dental attachment loss, and occasionally openings into nasal cavities.
Professional Dental Cleaning: An Essential Treatment
When tartar is already present, professional dental cleaning under anesthesia is necessary, including:
- Pre-medication to stabilize your pet
- Ultrasonic teeth cleaning
- Dental X-rays to assess damage
- Possible tooth extractions
- Polishing and fluoride application
Antibiotics may be prescribed before and after the procedure to prevent infection.
How to Prevent Pet Periodontal Disease?
Prevention plays a critical role in dental health. Effective methods include:
- Specialized diets like Hill’s t/d , Royal Canin Dental or Purina DH
- Dental chews such as CET Chews
- Regular tooth brushing with pet-specific toothpaste (e.g., CET for cats)
- Dental gels like Breathalyser Gel or Maxi-Guard Gel
Regular Veterinary Check-ups
Finally, regular veterinary visits are essential for maintaining optimal oral health. Find more information in our “Pet Dental Care” section.
