Periodontal disease is a common, yet often underestimated, dental issue in pets that demands attention because of its impact on our pets’ overall well-being. At the Animal Medical Center of Marquette, we recognize the importance of addressing pet periodontal disease, so we are providing this guide that delves into the various aspects of periodontal disease, including its definition, signs, treatment options, and prevention strategies. 

Periodontal disease in pets: What is it?

Periodontal disease is a prevalent dental condition that affects humans and pets. Bacteria accumulate in the mouth and form a sticky film called plaque that over time hardens into tartar and causes inflammation of the gums.

In pets, periodontal disease results in more than mere oral discomfort. The condition can destroy tooth-supporting structures and surrounding tissues, causing tooth loss and pain. More alarmingly, the bacteria in the oral cavity can enter the bloodstream and contribute to systemic health problems, such as heart, liver, and kidney diseases that can ultimately shorten your pet’s life. As a responsible pet owner, understanding the disease’s long-term effects and knowing which preventive measures are effective is crucial.

Periodontal signs in pets: Signs

Identifying periodontal disease signs is vital for early detection and intervention. However, pets often do not show signs in the early disease stages, and when owners don’t see their pet’s dental discomfort, the disease can advance and have serious consequences. Owners must always be observant with their pets. With periodontal disease, common signs you may notice include:

  • Bad breath — Persistent bad breath (i.e., halitosis), which is not normal in pets, is often an early sign of dental problems.
  • Changed eating habits — Reluctance to eat, chewing on one side of the mouth, or dropping food can indicate oral pain.
  • Bleeding gums — Blood on your pet’s toys, food, or bowls may be a sign of inflamed or infected gums.
  • Excessive drooling — Excessive drooling may point to oral health concerns, especially when accompanied by blood in the drool or other signs.
  • Pawing at the mouth — Pets often paw at their mouth when experiencing dental pain.

Periodontal disease in pets: Prevention

You should be proactive in preventing periodontal disease in your pet. Help minimize risk by taking these steps:

  • Regular brushing — Brush your pet’s teeth regularly—preferably daily, but at least three times per week—using pet-friendly toothbrush and toothpaste.
  • Providing dental chews and toys — Dental chews or toys reduce plaque and tartar buildup. Choose products endorsed by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC), which have been proven effective.
  • Feeding a balanced diet — Choose a diet that supports dental health and avoids excessive sugary treats. Ask your veterinarian for recommendations.
  • Scheduling regular veterinary exams — Schedule routine wellness exams, which include dental exams, with your veterinarian to catch potential issues early when they are easier to treat. Your pet’s dental exam may show periodontal disease, and your veterinarian will recommend a professional cleaning, which is the only way to remove the plaque and tartar and help prevent more inflammation, infection, pain, and tooth loss. The frequency of wellness exams and dental cleanings will vary according to your pet’s specific needs, such as age and life stage, but typically should occur annually.

Pet periodontal disease: Treatment

If your pet is diagnosed with periodontal disease, prompt treatment is essential, and recommendations likely will include:

  • A professional dental cleaning — A professional veterinary cleaning is necessary to remove plaque and tartar above and below the gum line. This procedure requires that pets be anesthetized for their own safety and the safety of the veterinary team. Dental X-rays are typically necessary to provide more details and they require that the pet stay completely still, which would not be possible without anesthesia.
  • Extraction of damaged teeth — In severe cases, the veterinarian may need to extract irreversibly damaged teeth to alleviate pain and prevent further complications. 
  • Medication — When infection is advanced, your veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics to combat bacterial growth and prevent systemic spread. You must follow the prescribed dosage and frequency and complete the entire course of antibiotics.
  • Follow-up care — After treatment, you must maintain a consistent at-home oral care routine as recommended by your veterinarian to prevent recurrence. 

Periodontal disease is a significant concern for pets because of the pain and lack of appetite and the potential long-term impact on their oral health and overall well-being. Pet owners must learn to recognize the early signs, seek professional guidance and treatment, and implement the recommended preventive measures to help ensure their pet enjoys a healthy and happy life.  

Call the dedicated team at the Animal Medical Center of Marquette to schedule your pet’s next wellness exam and dental checkup.