Last Updated on November 10, 2022 by
One of the most common disease in dogs is the periodontal disease which is also known as gum disease. It is a progressive inflammatory condition that can affect teeths’ supporting tissues, causing early tooth loss in dogs and cats. One study mentions that over 87 % of dogs and 70% of cats over the age of three are affected by periodontal disease of some degree.
Symptoms of Periodontal Disease
- Unpleasant breath
- Accumulation of tartar &/or plaque on tooth surface: teeth appear “Discoloured” (brown or yellow)
- Bleeding from gums: observed as blood on chew toys or in the water bowl
- Excessive drooling: noticed as wetting of furs around the mouth or front paws
- Pain or discomfort on chewing: hesitate to chew on toys or chew on particular side only
Inadequate daily maintenance, including lack of tooth brushing, and poor nutrition and diet can be the major reason for the development of plaque and bacteria that ultimately causes periodontal disease. If your dog shows periodontal disease symptoms mentioned above, such as swollen or inflamed gums, changes in appetite, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian right away.
What is the Treatment?
The treatment for periodontal disease in dogs is decided on the stage of periodontal disease that your dog is suffering from, but the following are some of the main procedures that your veterinarian may take as a thorough professional dental cleaning:
- Taking mouth X-rays to identify degree of periodontal disease and other complication
- Scaling the teeth above and below the gum line to clean plaque and tartar
- Teeth polishing to smooth the micro-scratch on the tooth surface
Deep cleaning above and below the gumline of your dog, while he/she is under the effect of anesthesia, is the safest and least stressful method. This also allows the veterinarian to conduct a thorough examination of the mouth, take dental X-rays, and remove any loose, broken, or infected teeth. Depending on the condition, they may prescribe antibiotics and pain relievers.
Moreover, a healthy body and immune system are preferable for good oral and gum health. As a result, giving your dog a complete and balanced dog food may help prevent the common causes of periodontal disease.
Is Periodontal Disease Preventable?
Following a few vet-recommended strategies can help protect your dog against periodontal disease.
To begin with, dogs can benefit the best from proper daily brushing of their teeth. Brushing helps prevent plaque and bacteria from growing. As a support of brushing, you can offer tooth-friendly chew toys. Soft rubber chews and bendy chew strips are both good options for your pet. Antlers, hooves, bleached bones, and tennis balls are not good to chew because they will damage the teeth. When in doubt, consult your pet care vet to see if a toy is appropriate or not.
Final Words
Dental problems in dogs are common, but they shouldn’t be ignored. You can take care of your furry friends’ dental health during their elderly years by being proactive and regularly consulting with a veterinarian who can help you manage their oral health.
Is your dog suffering from periodontal disease? Are you looking for the best animal pet hospital? At DCC Animal Hospital, our professionals provide quality dental care, pet care, and surgery for dogs. Contact https://dccpets.in/ today to book a dental checkup for your dog.
