PERIODONTAL DISEASE
Why should I be concerned about this process in my pet’s mouth?
- If we understand the disease process we can be much more effective in preventing its progression.
- If we can prevent periodontal disease from becoming irreversible we can add up to 2.5-3 years to your pet’s life. Internal organs are spared from the constant low grade bacterial “showers” from the infections in the mouth.
- Your pet will not have to experience the pain and lack of quality life those having the disease must silently endure.
- Pets without periodontal disease have nicer smelling breath.
- We can better protect the human-animal bond.
How does the process of periodontal disease happen?
Since pets do not brush their teeth a sticky film will adhere to the outer part of the tooth (the enamel). Bacteria in the saliva will then attach to the film and attract minerals from the saliva, forming tartar (plaque). This brownish tartar eventually forms next to the gums and the toxins from the bacteria cause inflammation of the gums. The gums get red (painful) and start to pull away from the tooth. The more aggressive bacteria congregate in the pockets formed as the gum attachment to the teeth breaks down creating a safe pocket under the edge of the gumline in which they continue to damage the gums and bone around the teeth. When the gums are red (the first stage of periodontal disease) or the enamel is damaged the bacteria have access into the pet’s bloodstream and travel to all the other internal organs. This is what we want to prevent.
85% of cats and dogs over the age of 3 years have some level of periodontal disease.
How do we prevent periodontal disease in our pets?
In the perfect world daily brushing would remove the sticky film that adheres to their teeth and prevent the entire process. We can design a home dental care program to fit your abilities and desires.
Just as we use vaccinations to prevent common contagious diseases, we perform professional teeth cleanings to prevent the progression of periodontal disease. Annual teeth cleanings are appropriate for most pets receiving at least some home dental care. Pets with severe periodontal disease require more frequent cleanings. We complete our thorough dental exams on anesthetized pets. Small probes are used to explore all potential pockets under the gumline. Tooth root and gum pocket cleanings are critical methods in the fight against periodontal disease.
Together we can keep this disease at bay. Thank you for your help.
|
