Periodontal disease, often called gum disease, is a prevalent and potentially severe health issue affecting both dogs and cats. It is surprisingly common, affecting up to 80% of dogs and cats by age 3. Periodontal disease can cause discomfort and, left unchecked, may lead to chronic disease and a shortened lifespan. While a veterinarian needs to examine and diagnose your pet, our Oriole Road Animal Hospital guide aims to equip you with the knowledge to recognize signs and to understand why timely care is important.

What is periodontal disease in pets?

Periodontal disease results when bacteria in food particles left in the pet’s mouth after eating form plaque, which is a sticky film that adheres to teeth. If allowed to accumulate, the plaque hardens into tartar, which is much more difficult to remove.

The tartar irritates and inflames the gums—at this stage the disease is known as gingivitis—and the pet eventually suffers with a severe infection and damage to the supporting bone and tissues that leads to tooth decay, tooth loss, and tooth root abscesses. Worse, the bacteria can enter the bloodstream, affect body organs, and cause systemic disease. 

Recognizing disease signs in pets

Although subtle in the early stages, periodontal disease signs often become noticeable as the disease progresses. Be on the lookout for the following:

  • Bad breath — Halitosis, or strong, unpleasant breath, is one of the earliest and most common signs. Many pet owners think bad breath is normal for pets—it’s not—and ignore this early sign.
  • Gum changes — Healthy gums should be firm and pink. Redness, inflammation, swelling, or bleeding, especially when brushing or touching, indicate dental disease.
  • Loose teeth — This sign indicates significant damage to the bone and tissues supporting the teeth because the disease has progressed.
  • Chewing difficulty — Painful gums or loose teeth can make chewing difficult and uncomfortable for your pet. They may chew on one side of their mouth or drop food because of the pain.
  • Changes in eating habits — Reduced appetite or reluctance to eat hard food may signify mouth pain.
  • Drooling — Excessive drooling, especially if blood-tinged, can signal advanced disease.
  • Facial swelling — In severe cases, the muzzle or jaw may swell and be painful.

If you observe any of these signs, scheduling an appointment promptly with our Oriole Road Animal Hospital veterinarian is crucial, because early diagnosis and treatment can prevent disease progression and irreversible damage. 

Long-term health risks of periodontal disease in pets

Untreated periodontal disease does not affect only your pet’s mouth, but also can significantly threaten their overall health. When the accumulated bacteria lurking in their inflamed gums enter the bloodstream through damaged tissue, they trigger a cascade of negative consequences, including:

  • Heart disease — The harmful bacteria can travel to the heart, attach to damaged heart valves, and cause endocarditis, a potentially life-threatening infection of the heart lining.
  • Kidney disease — The body’s immune system works overtime to fight the chronic inflammation in the pet’s mouth, straining the kidneys, and potentially leading to kidney disease.
  • Liver disease — Similar to the kidneys, the liver can be affected by the body’s response to chronic inflammation, ultimately leading to liver damage.
  • Respiratory issues — In severe cases, the infection can spread to the pet’s lungs, causing respiratory problems, such as bronchitis or pneumonia.
  • Pain and discomfort — Continuous pain from inflamed gums and loose teeth can make eating, playing, and resting difficult and uncomfortable and significantly affect your pet’s quality of life.

Disease treatment and prevention in pets

Early intervention is key to minimizing damage and preventing the serious health complications of periodontal disease. Prevention includes regular yearly or twice-yearly physical exams, including oral exams, as recommended by your veterinarian. Factors that make professional cleanings vital for your pet include:

  • Thoroughness —  Veterinary cleanings go beyond what home brushing can achieve. Our veterinary team uses specialized tools and techniques that reach below the gum line and into hard-to-reach areas to remove tartar buildup and plaque more effectively, and then scales and polishes the teeth to prevent future buildup.
  • Anesthesia —  General anesthesia ensures your pet’s comfort and safety during the procedure.
  • X-rays — Dental X-rays, which can be performed only on anesthetized pets, can reveal hidden problems such as loose teeth and tooth root abscesses that cannot be seen on physical exams, enabling early intervention and preventing further complications.

You can help your pet by supplementing the professional cleaning with at-home steps that should include:

  • Daily toothbrushing — Brush your pet’s teeth daily, or at least three times per week, with a pet-specific toothbrush and toothpaste. Never use human toothpaste, which is toxic to pets.
  • Dental chews and toys — Offer dental chews and toys specifically designed to remove plaque and tartar. Look for the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal of approval that signifies the product’s effectiveness.
  • Healthy diet — Choose a diet that promotes oral health. Consult your veterinarian for guidance.

When you understand periodontal disease signs, potential consequences, and preventive measures, you are empowered to protect your pet’s oral health and overall well-being. Remember, your pet’s oral health does not occur in isolation—your pet’s entire body and general health can be affected. 

Don’t hesitate to contact Oriole Road Animal Hospital if you have any concerns about your pet’s mouth. We’re here to maintain your pet’s healthy smile and ensure they live a happy, healthy life.