Does My Dog or Cat Have Periodontal Disease?
We love our pets for their always-wagging tails and their playful purrs, but sometimes their breath doesn't quite match their charm. Beyond the less-than-pleasant scent, deeper oral health problems could be silently causing them pain and discomfort. Periodontal disease, often called gum disease, is common—yet frequently overlooked—in dogs and cats. Recognizing periodontal disease signs and seeking timely treatment is crucial for your pet’s overall well-being.
The Santa Monica Pet Medical Center team wants to empower pet owners by ensuring they understand periodontal disease, can identify potential red flags, and navigate the best course of action with their veterinarian.
What is Periodontal Disease in Pets?
Periodontal disease develops in pets the same way as in humans. After eating, a sticky film of bacteria called plaque forms on their teeth from leftover food particles and saliva and, if not removed, the bacteria accumulate and the plaque hardens into tartar. The tartar clings to the teeth, creating a haven where more bacteria can thrive. The built-up bacteria irritate the gums, leading to early stage periodontal disease, called gingivitis (i.e., inflamed gums).
Left untreated, gingivitis can progress to full-blown periodontal disease, which affects the deeper tissues supporting the teeth, including the ligaments and bone, and can lead to tooth loss. The bacteria also can enter the bloodstream and affect vital organs, including the heart, liver, and kidneys.
- Heart disease — Bacteria from the mouth can lodge on heart valves, causing inflammation and potentially leading to heart failure.
- Liver disease — The liver filters blood, and excess bacteria from periodontal disease can overload the organ, leading to inflammation and damage.
- Kidney disease — Similar to the liver, the influx of oral bacteria can overstrain the kidneys and potentially cause kidney failure.
What Are Periodontal Disease Signs in Your Pet?
While pets can't verbally tell us when their mouths hurt, subtle changes in behavior and appearance can hint at periodontal disease. Be on the lookout for:
- Bad breath — Persistent halitosis (i.e., bad breath) is often the first visible disease sign. Unfortunately, many pet owners think bad breath is normal for pets and do not seek veterinary care, so the disease advances.
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums — Healthy gums are firm and pink. Inflammation makes them red, puffy, and prone to bleeding when touched or during eating.
- Loose teeth — As the disease progresses, the supporting structures around the teeth weaken and become loose and wobbly.
- Difficulty eating — Oral pain and discomfort can make chewing difficult, so the pet loses their appetite and loses weight.
- Drooling — Excessive drooling, and especially drool tinged with blood, is not normal and can be a periodontal disease sign.
- Facial swelling — In severe cases, infection spreads beyond the gums, causing swelling around the face and jaw.
- Behavioral changes — Irritability, pawing at the mouth, reluctance to play, and sometimes aggression because of the pain can be periodontal disease signs.
What Can Be Done for Periodontal Disease in Pets?
The earlier the diagnosis, the earlier the pet can be treated, and the disease prevented from advancing and causing severe pain that affects quality of life.
Veterinary Care
Therefore, seek veterinary help as soon as you notice any signs that make you suspect your pet is suffering with periodontal disease. Our team’s comprehensive dental exam will include:
- Oral exam — We will thoroughly examine your pet's teeth, gums, and mouth for evidence of disease.
- Dental cleaning — If necessary, we may recommend a professional dental cleaning while your pet is anesthetized. This procedure, performed by our skilled veterinary technicians, safely removes plaque and tartar buildup that cannot be reached through home care. Anesthesia is necessary for your pet’s safety, and our team’s safety, because we use sharp tools and they must stay completely still. Sedation also prevents stress and anxiety.
- Digital X-rays — These are necessary to find problems not visible during the physical exam. Again, your pet needs to stay completely still.
- Treatment plan — Based on the diagnosis and severity of the disease in your pet, we will develop a personalized treatment plan, which may include medications, surgery, and dietary modifications.
At-Home Care
You should supplement your pet’s dental care between veterinary visits with at-home care, which should include:
- Regular toothbrushing — Daily brushing with a veterinary-approved toothbrush and toothpaste removes plaque and helps prevent tartar buildup. Start slowly and gradually acclimate your pet to the process. Never use human toothpaste, which is toxic for pets.
- Dental chews — Choose dental chews specifically designed to scrape away plaque and tartar. Look for the Veterinary Oral Health Council’s (VOHC) seal of approval, which ensures the product is effective and safe for your pet.
- Healthy diet — Opt for a high-quality diet that promotes good oral health. Look for kibble that enhances dental health, such as a crunchy texture, or ask your veterinarian to recommend a specifically formulated dental diet. Additives for your pet’s food or water are also available.
Both professional and at-home dental cleanings are essential for your pet’s good dental health, but most important are regular veterinary checkups, even if your pet has no signs of health problems. We recommend regular wellness screenings, which include dental exams, yearly or twice yearly, depending on your pet’s health status and age. These checkups allow for early intervention, potentially preventing the progression of periodontal disease and its associated complications.
By being aware of periodontal disease signs, maintaining a consistent home-care routine, and seeking prompt veterinary care when necessary, you can help ensure your furry friend always has a happy, healthy smile.
Contact Santa Monica Pet Medical Center and schedule your pet’s wellness exam.