Gum disease in dog and cats; almost all over the age of 3 have it!

Gingivitis

Gum disease starts with the build up of plaque, which is a biofilm (biological substance) composed of bacteria. Once mineralized by calcium salts from saliva it becomes tartar (plaque). As plaque and tartar accumulate on and around the teeth it begins to irritate and then infect the gums, resulting in gingivitis or inflammation of the gums. Gingivitis is a reversible disease in it early states. One can identify gingivitis by noticing a slight redness to the color of the gums, this redness denotes inflammation of the tissue. You may also notice slight swelling of the gums as well.

Peridontitis

Peridontitis is cause by inflammation of the supporting structures of the tooth. It starts with the break down of the gum fibers, which attach to the tooth surface. A sulcus or periodontal pocket forms. Infection deeper into these tissues can extend into the underlying bone surrounding the teeth. Peridontitis is an irreversible disease and it should be the goal of dental care to prevent this situation. Once established, treatments can slow the progression of this problem but will not cure it. Multiple dental cleanings a year are required.

Clinical Signs

1. Bad Breath
2. Swelling and redness of the gum tissues around the teeth
3. Increased Salivation
4. Difficulty eating

*It should be noted, that more often times than not, owners do not recognize many of these signs. Dogs and especially cats are masters of masking signs of disease.

Effects

1. If the roots of the tooth become affected tooth loss may occur.
2. Chronic dental Pain resulting in a decrease in the quality of life for your pet.
3. Bacteria can gain entrance into the blood stream (bacteremia) damaging other internal organs.

Management

Obviously prevention is the key to dental health. Keeping the dental surfaces cleaned of dental tartar. Daily brushing with specially designed pet tooth paste (do not use human toothpaste), Chew toys, dental diets, regular exams and teeth cleanings by your veterinarian are the corner stone of dental care.

Professional Veterinary Dental Treatments

• This starts with thorough dental exam. Best done under general anesthesia.

1. Measuring the periodontal pocket.

2. Dental X-rays

• Dental Cleaning or Dental Prophylaxis. Specialized instruments and techniques are utilized to remove tartar for the surface of the teeth and under the gums into the periodontal pocket.
• It is important to polish the enamel otherwise tartar reattaches more quickly.
• Application of an Oravet seal. This is a polymer sealed onto the teeth which functions to decrease adherence of the initial biofilm and subsequent tartar.

Gum disease in our pets are common and generally overlooked as a import health concern by many owners. Prompt and constant attention early in life and can prevent severe disease later in our pets lives. In our older pet, it is a common source of pain and discomfort. Dentistry is an integral part of my veterinary house call practice in San Jose, Ca.