Periodontal disease and Tooth Care

Periodontal disease is one of the most common diseases seen in the dog and cat.

Some breeds of dog or cats are predisposed to the disease.

 

Periodontal disease occurs from plaque (soft sticky film) on the surface of the tooth.

The plaque causes inflammation of the gingival (the gum) as it is laden with bacteria.  This can be reversed if the plaque is removed by brushing. 

If left untreated, the supporting tissues including the bone begins to be destroyed, this will result in tooth loss.

 

Some studies have shown that advanced periodontal disease can lead to a fractured jaw and possible heart and kidney problems.

 

PREVENTION IS THE ONLY CURE!

 

Daily tooth brushing is essential.

Use a child’s toothbrush of medium texture with a chlorhexidine based tooth paste NEVER USE HUMAN TOOTHPASTE.  There is a selection of animal toothpaste sold at the surgery.

 

If you call and book an appointment with Ali our dental nurse she will be able to show you how to brush your pet’s teeth.

 

Signs of periodontal disease 

·       Becoming fussy with eating their food

·       Not eating

·       Rubbing face or pawing at the face

·       Behavioural changes (becoming more subdued)

·       Halitosis (bad breath)

 

If your pet is showing any of these signs then you should bring you pet into the surgery for a vet to have a look at the mouth.

 

Your pet then may have to undergo an anaesthetic to slow down the disease process by scaling the plaque and calculus (mineralised plaque) away and then polishing.

Once this has been achieved every effort should be made to brush your pet’s teeth daily to prevent him/her going under anaesthetic again.