Did you know that by the age of 3, a staggering 80% of dogs are affected by periodontal disease? Despite its prevalence, this common yet often overlooked health concern can impact your pet’s well-being. Understanding periodontal disease, how to prevent it, and the available treatment options is crucial for ensuring your furry pal’s optimal oral health. Read our Neighborhood Veterinary Centers of Wallisville team’s guide to periodontal disease and learn how to provide your pet with routine at-home and professional oral care. Although you can help your pet avoid periodontal disease, find out about the treatment options that are available if they do develop this condition.

What is periodontal disease in pets?

Periodontal disease (i.e., gum disease) is a progressive condition that affects the teeth’s supporting structures, including the gums, ligaments, and bone. This condition starts innocently enough with the accumulation of plaque, a sticky bacteria on the teeth. If left untreated, plaque accumulation can lead to gingivitis, characterized by inflamed gums. Gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a severe form of periodontal disease that destroys tooth-supporting structures.

The periodontal disease process begins with bacterial colonization on a tooth’s surface. If this plaque is not removed through at-home dental care and professional dental cleanings, the substance transforms into dental calculus (i.e., tartar) and initiates the body’s inflammatory response, resulting in gum disease. Periodontal disease can cause pain and tooth loss, and even impact your pet’s overall health.

What are periodontal disease signs in pets?

Identifying periodontal disease signs in pets is crucial for early intervention. While bad breath, swollen or bleeding gums, difficulty eating, and behavior changes are common periodontal disease indicators, subtle signs often go unnoticed. An affected pet may be reluctant to play with toys or may experience weight loss because eating is too painful. Early detection of these signs is challenging, which is why regular professional dental checkups are important.

How to prevent periodontal disease in pets

Preventing periodontal disease in your pet requires a proactive approach to their oral care. To enhance your pet’s oral health, follow these tips:

  • Regular toothbrushing — Establish a routine for brushing your pet’s teeth at home using a pet toothbrush and pet-safe toothpaste. Brush your pet’s teeth at least three to four times per week to remove plaque and prevent tartar buildup.
  • Dental diets and treats — Specially formulated dental diets and treats play a crucial role in promoting your pet’s oral health. These products often contain ingredients that help control plaque and tartar formation.
  • Professional dental cleanings — While at-home dental care is essential for your pet, regular professional dental cleanings are equally vital. Our Neighborhood Veterinary Centers of Wallisville team recommends pets have professional dental cleanings annually or more frequently, depending on their individual needs.
  • Chew toys and dental products — Providing appropriate chew toys and dental products can significantly contribute to reducing plaque and tartar buildup on your pet’s teeth. Look for products approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) to ensure safety and efficacy.
  • Regular veterinary checkups — Comprehensive veterinary checkups, including thorough dental examinations, are crucial for the early detection of dental issues. Our team can identify potential problems and provide tailored recommendations for your pet’s dental health care.

Periodontal disease treatment for pets

If our team diagnoses your pet with periodontal disease, we can provide prompt and appropriate treatment. Your pet’s periodontal disease treatment may include one or more of the following:

  • Professional dental cleaning — Our veterinary team performs comprehensive dental cleanings while your pet is under anesthesia to ensure thorough plaque and tartar removal. Anesthesia allows your pet to have a safe and effective dental cleaning experience.
  • Tooth extraction — If your pet’s tooth damage is irreversible, extraction may be necessary. Removing severely affected teeth is crucial for relieving pain and preventing complications.
  • Antibiotic therapy — Antibiotics may be prescribed to control bacterial infection associated with periodontal disease. These medications are sometimes crucial for resolving an advanced oral infection’s systemic impact.
  • Home care — Beyond professional interventions, our team provides specific home dental care recommendations tailored to your pet’s needs such as toothbrushing, specialized diets, or other preventive measures.

Your pet’s oral health has a significant impact on their overall well-being. If you have concerns about your pet’s oral health or want to learn more about preventing your furry pal from developing periodontal disease, schedule an appointment with our Neighborhood Veterinary Centers of Wallisville team.