PERIODONTAL DISEASE

Periodontal disease is the most common disease of dogs and cats.  The American Dental Society reports that 80% of dogs and 70% of cats show signs of oral disease by the age of three.

Periodontal disease begins with plaque – a soft white, sticky combination of proteins and bacteria that build up on tooth surfaces.  If not brushed away, the bacteria begin to irritate the gums causing gingivitis, an inflammatory response of the soft tissue around each tooth.  Plaque hardens into tartar (calculus) causing inflammation which eventually leads to infection, bad breath, and bone destruction.  This is a very painful process and will lead to tooth loss.

The good news – periodontal disease is completely preventable!

STAGING YOUR PET’S PERIODONTAL DISEASE

Routine oral examinations include checking for calculus formation, gingivitis, bleeding, foul odor, discolored teeth and fractured teeth.

Staging your pet’s dental disease helps us better determine which dental treatment is best of your pet.

Canine Periodontal Disease

 
            Stage 1                            Stage 2                         Stage 3                            Stage 4

Feline Periodontal Disease

                  Stage 1                                Stage 2                         Stage 3                    Stage 4