Download Staging Dental Disease - Eastwood Animal Clinic

H O W D O E S YO U R P E T ’ S MO U T H LO O K ?
Dental disease is a silent
Stage 1
process that may cause many
Here is a relatively healthy mouth with
minimal gum inflammation and plaque
other illnesses, including kidney,
buildup. Dental cleanings performed at this
heart, and blood infections.
stage PREVENT deep seated dental disease
When pets don’t receive the
and infections from occurring. The need for
tooth extraction is unlikely, but possible.
dental care they need to keep
their teeth clean and their gums
Stage 2
Severe gum inflammation with some gum
healthy, their mouths can
recession. Bone loss is starting to occur
harbor bad bacteria. Tooth loss,
around infected tooth roots. Significant dental
bone loss, and severe dental pain
disease is present. A dental cleaning is
necessary to TREAT disease. Tooth
may result. The extent of dental
extractions may be necessary. The mouth is
disease present in a cat or dog is
likely uncomfortable
not always obvious. A thorough
Stage 3
Severe gum inflammation with more
dental exam while under
advanced gum recession and root exposure.
anesthesia (during a dental
More bone of the jaw has been lost and
teeth may be loose. Teeth extractions are
cleaning) is required to probe
likely necessary. This condition is painful.
each individual tooth and assess
for pockets, cavities,
malocclusions, and other
Stage 4
This mouth is full of pus, bacteria, and disease.
The teeth are very loose and may even be
problems that may require
falling out. The gums are severely inflamed
treatment.
and infected. The roots are infected and
exposed. There is advanced loss of bone
surrounding the tooth roots. Tooth extractions
are needed. This condition is very painful.
Initial ________________
Adapted from handout created by Michelle Guercio, CVT, CVPM, Animal Care Center of Pasco County, New Port Richey, Fla.