National Pet Dental Health Month - Periodontal Disease

Hooray for National Pet Dental Health Month!  As a Veterinary Technician I love February.  It is an opportunity to educate clients about dental health.  Very few clients know how seriously dental disease can impact their pets health, and it is preventable.

Pets develop plaque just like we do.  Plaque contains bacteria which can damage the tooth, lead to infection, and cause pain. Bacteria from periodontal disease can enter the blood stream and could lead to damage of the heart, kidneys and liver. If not brushed off of the teeth, plaque will turn into tartar. Once tartar builds up it is hard to remove and causes more plaque to accumulate which then leads to more tartar. Over time that tartar will start to develop under the gumline.  If left untreated this can cause damage to the structures that hold the tooth in place.

Gingivitis and Small Amount of Tartar Build-Up

How do you know if you pet has periodontal disease?

You may notice;

• bad breath
• bleeding gums
• pawing at the face
• changes in eating habits such as chewing on only one side or dropping food
• Pain while eating
• excessive drooling
• loose teeth or teeth that have fallen out. 

Tartar Build-up that has caused gum recession

Severe Periodontal Disease, Gum Recession and Root Exposure

If you think your pet may have Periodontal disease make an appointment with your Veterinarian for a dental check up.  Most Veterinary Clinics offer discounts or specials during Dental Month so it is a great time to
address any dental issues.