Periodontal Disease
Bad
breath, pawing at the mouth, drooling, difficulty eating and chewing food
(swallowing food whole, eating only soft food, disinterest in hard treats or
chews), are a few of the symptoms of dental disease. This can lead to
gingivitis and periodontal disease, which is caused by infection from plaque and
tartar on pets' teeth. The early stages of dental disease can be treated and
the condition reversed. However, when left untreated, irreversible periodontal
disease can occur along with chronic bacterial infection, which can enter the
bloodstream and may damage the kidneys, liver and heart. In addition, this
condition is very painful and uncomfortable to the pet and tooth loss may
occur.
Periodontal disease is one of the most common diseases seen by veterinarians. It is also one of the easiest to prevent. It is estimated that two thirds of pets suffer from some stage of dental disease that requires treatment. In addition, to routine dental cleanings or prophylaxis, dental home care is extremely important (see dental care tab).
Signs and Symptoms of Periodontal Disease
- Bad breath
- Sensitive mouth, decreased appetite, eating only soft food
- Pawing at the mouth
- Plaque
- Bleeding, inflamed or red gums
- Tartar
- Loose or missing teeth
- Difficulty eating and chewing food or rawhide