Identifying Periodontal Disease In Your Dog
Did you know that 85% of adult pets suffer from periodontal disease? Could your pet be at risk? Imagine what would happen if you didn't routinely care for your own teeth between dental cleanings. The same basics of dental care are true for your pet, too. Without routine care, your pet could suffer from increasingly serious stages of periodontal disease. We'll take a look at all four stages below:
In this stage, the gum (or gingiva) at the top of the teeth is inflamed and swollen, and plaque covers the teeth. Treatment can reverse the condition at this point. See your vet immediately, as your pet may already experience discomfort at this point.
In this stage, the entire attached gum is inflamed and swollen. The pet’s mouth is painful and bad breath is noticeable. When it gets to stage 2, professional veterinary treatment and home dental care can prevent this from becoming irreversible.
In stage 3, infection and calculus are destroying the gum, now bright red and bleeding. The pet’s mouth is sore, which can affect eating and behavior. Bad breath is consistent. Periodontitis had begun and may be irreversible at this point. Veterinary care is mandatory.
At this stage, chronic bacterial infection is killing the gum tissue, teeth and bone (now black in color). Bacteria may be spreading to the bloodstream and throughout your pet’s body. This can damage the kidneys, liver or heart. Get the pet veterinary care immediately, as this is a life threatening condition.
