Download PERIODONTAL DISEASE

PERIODONTAL DISEASE
Periodontal
disease,
which
includes
gingivitis
and
periodontitis,
is
an
inflammation and/or infection of the gums and bone around a dog’s or cat’s
teeth.
It is caused by bacteria that accumulate in the mouth, forming soft
plaque that later hardens into tartar.
When compared to gingivitis,
periodontitis indicates bone loss.
Most periodontal infections begin simply enough.
Plaque; which is
composed of bacteria, salivary proteins, and food debris, builds up in the space
between teeth and gums, causing irritation, redness and swelling. Eventually,
pockets form and deepen, allowing bacteria to damage the tissues that hold
teeth in place. At this stage, bacteria from the oral infection have a clear path
to the animal’s bloodstream and vital organs.
The organs with the highest
blood flow are most susceptible to infection: lungs, heart, kidneys, liver and
even the brain. Damage to these organs caused by infection can shorten the
lives of dogs and cats.
If your pet displays any of these symptoms, serious periodontal
disease may be present:
1.
Bad breath - one of the first signs of dental disease.
2.
A yellowish-brown crust of tartar on the teeth near the gum line.
3.
Red and swollen gums.
4.
Pain or bleeding when eating, or when the mouth or gums are
touched.
5.
Decreased appetite or difficulty eating.
6.
Loose or missing teeth.
THE 4 GRADES OF PERIODONTAL DISEASE
GRADE 1
GINGIVITIS
Plaque and tarter build-up can lead to
an infection causing inflammation of
the gums around the dog’s teeth. Gum
tissue around the teeth can become
inflamed and swollen.
GRADE 2
MILD PERIODONTITIS
Inflammation
progresses
to
an
infection that starts to destroy gum and
bone tissue around the teeth. This can
lead to discomfort for the dog, and bad
breath may be noticeable.
GRADE 3
MODERATE PERIODONTITIS
The continuing infection destroys more
tissue around the teeth, often causing
bleeding of gums and loosening of
teeth. The discomfort and pain can
affect eating habits and behavior.
GRADE 4
SEVERE PERIODONTITIS
Extensive infection is tearing down
even more of the attachment tissues
(gum and bone). Teeth are at risk of
being lost.