Periodontal disease is a disease process that affects the tissues that anchor and support the teeth. It is the most prevalent disease among dogs and cats: up to 80% of pets show symptoms of oral disease by the age of three. It is especially common in smaller breed dogs and certain breeds of cats but no pet is immune to the problem. Unfortunately, periodontal disease is also one of the most neglected areas of health care in pets. Left unchecked, periodontal disease can also contribute to other problems such as heart and kidney disease.
Periodontal disease is caused by plaque, a film that forms on the teeth which contains large amount of bacteria. As plaque builds up, the bacteria cause an infection that can result in gum loss and loss of the tissue and bone that support the teeth.
Symptoms of periodontal disease include:
- Bad Breath
- Weight Loss
- Tooth Loss
- Yellow or Brown Crust on Teeth (Tartar)
- Red or Bleeding Gums
- Going to the Food Bowl but not Eating
- Changes in Chewing or Eating Habits
- Dropping Food When Eating
- Drooling
- Swallowing Food Whole Instead of Chewing
(Photo #1: Tartar Build Up and Irritated Gumlines, Photo #2: Cat With Evidence of Gum Disease, Photo #3: Tartar Build up and Gum Line Recession)
Dental Cleaning
When tartar (mineralized plaque) is present on teeth, professional veterinary treatment is needed. Veterinary dental scaling and polishing is performed under general anesthesia. Once a pet is placed under anesthesia, a complete oral exam is performed. The large fragments of tartar are removed by hand scaling. After the large fragments of tartar are removed the remaining tartar and microscopic plaque are removed from above and below the gum line with an ultrasonic scaler. Any loose or diseased teeth are extracted if necessary. The teeth are then polished to make them smooth and a fluoride rinse is applied. Antibiotics and/or pain medications may be sent home if there was evidence of infection or tooth removal was performed. Most pets are able to go home the same day following a dental cleaning.
Preventing Oral Disease in Your Pet
As a pet owner, you can significantly reduce the risk of oral disease in your pet. The first step is to have regular physical examinations performed by a veterinarian. Owners should also practice a regular dental program at home, such as brushing your pets teeth at least 2-3 times a week. Special toothbrushes and toothpastes are made for pets. It is important to use a toothpaste specifically made for pets as they do not contain fluoride. In addition, there are also specially formulated foods and chews to help remove plaque from the teeth. Maintaining a regular dental program can help slow the formation of plaque on your pets teeth increase the amount of time between dental cleanings.
If your pet is exhibiting symptoms of periodontal disease make an appointment for an examination with your veterinarian.
Let's keep our pets smiles healthy and happy!
