Does your dog have periodontal disease?
The signs of periodontal disease vary from dog to dog and are typically based on the severity of the disease. The first thing most people will notice is halitosis. Contrary to what many people believe, dogs are not supposed to have bad breath. This is a sign of dental disease and it should be addressed right away.
How to spot and prevent periodontal disease in dogs?
Watch out for signs such as:
- Swollen or reddened gums
- yellow or brown teeth and loose or missing teeth
- Smelly breath
- A loss of appetite or trouble eating and weight loss
Is your pet at risk for periodontal disease?
Small breed dogs and those with short muzzles are more prone to periodontal disease due to the overcrowding and misalignment of teeth in their mouths. Unfortunately, most pet owners do not notice the signs of periodontal disease until it reaches a more advanced stage. In advanced stages, your dog may develop:
What are the signs of gum disease in dogs?
These are the top five signs of gum disease in dogs:
- Gingivitis. Symptoms of gingivitis include redness and swelling of the gums.
- Bad breath. Maybe even before you notice gingivitis, pet parents may notice that their dog has bad breath. ...
- Receding gums. A separation of the gums away from the teeth is a sign of gum disease. ...
- Bleeding. ...
- Loose teeth. ...
What is periodontal disease in dogs?
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease in dogs, is one of the most common health conditions affecting canines. It occurs when periodontitis bacteria infect a dog's mouth. This disease usually creeps into the mouth without any noticeable signs or symptoms until it has advanced.
What causes periodontal disease in dogs?
Poor diet and nutrition may contribute to the growth of bacteria and plaque that eventually lead to periodontal disease in dogs.
What are the signs of periodontal disease in dogs?
Symptoms of periodontal disease in dogs vary in intensity depending on the severity of disease progression, but typically include
How do you diagnose periodontal disease in dogs?
To safely and accurately diagnose canine periodontal disease, a veterinary dentist must x-ray and examine dogs' teeth below the gum line under general anesthesia.
How to treat periodontal disease in dogs
Generally, treatment for periodontal disease in dogs requires daily toothbrushing with a veterinarian-approved enzymatic toothpaste. It takes two days for calcification to occur. Your vet will recommend a specific treatment for your dog’s gum disease depending on how far the condition has advanced.
How much does it cost to treat periodontal disease in dogs?
The cost to treat periodontal disease in dogs can range between a few hundred and a few thousand dollars depending on the severity of the condition. Generally, less dentistry work is required with earlier detection, leading to lower overall costs.
Recovery and management of periodontal disease in dogs
The length of recovery from gum disease depends on the required medical care. A dog who has had a straightforward cleaning and scaling procedure should return to normal the following day. In the case of extractions or major surgeries, it might take your pet three to five days to fully recover.
Why do dogs have periodontal disease?
Certain breeds are predisposed to periodontal disease due to poor dental hygiene, a maligned bite, genetics, and/or the shape of a dog’s mouth . Some of these breeds include the following:
How does periodontal disease start in dogs?
Periodontal disease begins when the bacteria in a dog’s mouth form a substance called plaque, which sticks to the surface of the teeth. The minerals in the saliva harden the plaque into dental calculus (tartar), which is firmly attached to the teeth. It’s not until a dog is around two to three years old that tartar begins to appear.
What is the most common dental problem in dogs?
Periodontal disease (Periodontitis) is the most common dental issue in dogs. It is caused by the accumulation of dental plaque and tartar on the teeth, which triggers inflammation. Periodontal disease affects canine teeth and the surrounding structures (the gums and bone). Periodontitis can result in gum infections, bone loss and, ...
What happens if you get periodontal disease early?
If any of these signs present themselves, consult your vet immediately. If caught early on, you can prevent further damage, medical problems, and possible tooth loss. You’ll also be alleviating the pain that periodontal disease causes.
Why do vets recommend tooth extractions?
Your vet will recommend extraction if the teeth have reached the point where they cannot be saved due to infection, bone loss, or pain.
What does it mean when a dog's mouth hurts?
It means something is amiss inside your dog’s mouth. If any of these signs present themselves, consult your vet immediately. If caught early on, you can prevent further damage, medical problems, and possible tooth loss. You’ll also be alleviating the pain that periodontal disease causes.
How to keep a dog's mouth healthy?
Diligent at-home dental care, along with regular dental checkups by your vet, can keep your dog’s mouth healthy. It is a daily commitment, but one that is necessary for dogs who are prone to, or already suffer from, periodontal disease.
