Periodontal disease
and Other Oral and Dental problems

Not many pet owners think about their pet’s dental health, but it is critical to your animal’s overall health and quality of life.

Studies show that animals that receive regular oral exams and care live longer than those that do not. Just like humans, poor dental health is linked to certain diseases and is largely preventable with the right oral care regimen.

Why Does Poor Dental Health Increase the Risk for Disease?

Poor dental health can lead to the accumulation and spread of harmful bacteria.

Once that bacteria adheres to the teeth and gums, it can penetrate the gum line and lead to periodontal disease that can have long-term adverse health effects on your pet.

Periodontal Disease in Animals

Periodontal Disease
in Animals

Periodontal disease can affect pets the same way it does humans. For most cats and dogs, the effects of it can be present by two years of age. The good news is that we can treat it. It is always best to consult a veterinary professional to stop the damage once it has begun. The goal of treatment is to reverse gingivitis and prevent further damage that could lead to pain and tooth loss.

When Periodontal
Disease Progresses

Periodontal disease might begin in the mouth, but if you don’t address it, it can affect other parts of the body. Bacteria found in the mouth can be easily transmitted into the bloodstream where it can travel throughout the body, affecting everything from the liver to the heart and kidneys. Periodontal disease has the potential to be a problem that goes far beyond your pet’s oral care, which is why treating it immediately is critical.

Symptoms of
Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is one of the most common health concerns in pets. Unfortunately, it can go undetected until it is a major problem. Once it begins, it can start to wreak havoc on your pet’s health, leading to things like chronic pain, tooth loss, and even jaw fractures.

Although the symptoms are typically silent, these are things to look for regularly to ensure that your pet’s oral health is not in jeopardy:

  • Bad breath
  • Bleeding or red gums
  • Problems eating or picking up food
  • Bleeding on chew toys or in a water bowl
  • Making noises when yawning or eating
  • Lumps or bumps in their mouth
  • Blood in their saliva
  • Ropey or bloody saliva
  • Chewing using only one side of the mouth
  • Not wanting to have their mouth or head touched

Common Health Problems Linked to Poor Oral Hygiene

  • Feline Tooth Resorption
  • Dental Caries
  • Plaque
  • Gingivostomatitis
  • Oral Cancers
  • Periodontitis
  • Tartar
  • Gingivitis(which is the early stage of periodontal disease)
  • Pyorrhea (or inflammation of the tooth sockets and gums that can lead to tooth)

Health Problems associated with Poor Oral Hygiene

Just like humans, pets require good oral habits and hygiene for their overall health.

At Veterinary Dental Care, we believe that intervention can keep your pets healthy and happy and increase their longevity and quality of life. Contact us to make your appointment today!

  • Diabetes Mellitus
  • Blood Infections
  • Heart Disease
  • Bone Infections
  • High Blood Pressure
  • Heart Valve Infections
  • Poor Appetite
  • Liver Abscesses
  • Kidney Problems
  • Certain Cancers