By Jane Bishop
Pet dentistry has become an established aspect of good
veterinary care. And for good reason! Periodontal disease is the most common
clinical condition occurring in adult dogs and cats, and is entirely
preventable. By three years of age, most dogs and cats have some evidence of
periodontal disease. Unfortunately, other than bad breath, there are few signs
of the disease process evident to the owner.
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Periodontal
disease begins when bacteria in the mouth form a substance called plaque that
sticks to the surface of the teeth. Subsequently, minerals in the saliva harden
the plaque in to dental calculus (tarter), which is firmly attached to the
teeth. Tarter above the gum line is obvious to most owners, but is not of
itself the cause of disease.
The real problem
develops as plaque and calculus spread under the gum line. Bacteria in this
sub- gingival plaque set in motion a cycle of damage to the tissues around the
teeth, eventually leading to tooth loss. Bacteria under the gum line secrete
toxins which contribute to tissue damage if left untreated.
Periodontal
disease includes gingivitis (reddening of gums) and periodontitis (loss of bone
and soft tissue around the teeth). There is a wide range in the appearance and
severity of periodontal disease, which often cannot be properly evaluated or
treated without general anesthesia for veterinary patients. Effects within the
oral cavity include damage to or loss of gum tissue and bone around the teeth,
development of a fistula from the oral cavity in to the nasal passages causing
nasal discharge, fractures of the jaw following weakening of the jaw bone, and
bone infection (osteomyelititis).
Bacteria from
the mouth can also enter the bloodstream, and in studies have shown to be
associated with changes in heart, liver, and kidney function. If you notice
changes in your pets breath, redness of gum tissue, changes in eating habits,
or painful around the muzzle, please contact the staff at Central Kentucky Veterinary Center to schedule a
thorough oral examination and consultation on treatment options.
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After cleaning
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