Pet Dental Disease’s Four Stages

As we have discussed in previous blogs, your pets dental health is very important! Periodontal disease is often seen by our veterinarians, and can be found in most dogs and cats. This disease can lead to pain, infection, tooth loss and damage to other organs.

Dental health for our pet patients is very important to us at Bregman Veterinary Group, so we would like to place the focus of this blog on periodontal disease and further educate you on the stages of periodontal disease that can occur in pets.

Periodontal disease can be broken down into four stages, they are as follows:

Stage 1
The early stage is characterized by gingivitis. This is an inflammation of the pet’s gums as it responds to the existence of bacteria and tartar. You might notice some minor swelling of the gum area. You may also notice a visible thin red line on the gums next to the teeth at this stage as well.

Stage 2
A.K.A. periodontitis. At this stage there is a small amount of bone loss,  < 25% , visible on oral x-rays. Inflammation of your pet’s gums may occur along with visible plaque and tartar and bad breath. At this stage, your pet should get a professional cleaning to thoroughly remove the plaque and tartar, and to help reverse the progress of the disease.

Stage 3
At this stage serious damage starts. This stage is also known as moderate periodontitis. During x-rays 25-50% of bone loss can be found. Gums are swollen and aggravated and may even bleed. Significant pain may be present along with bad breath. It is recommended the infected/damaged teeth now be removed.

Stage 4
In the 4th and final stage, extreme periodontal disease is obvious. Bone loss is now >50%, visible in x-rays. Your pet could lose numerous teeth along with being in extreme pain. Infection could spread to internal organs as well now.

Preventing and Treating Pet Dental Disease

Periodontal disease can be treated, which is why you should always have an annual exam for your pet. This allows your veterinarian the ability to take the necessary steps for your pets oral care. These regular checkups, dental cleanings and daily brushing done by you go a long way towards a healthy mouth and life!
As always, your Bregman Veterinary Group is here for you and your pet! Don’t hesitate to contact us to schedule your pet’s next visit. Happy Brushing!

Why Does Your Dog have Bad Breath?

THE BREGMAN VETERINARY GROUP

www.BregmanVetGroup.com

Does your pet have bad breath?  While common, bad breath is often a sign that your pet needs better dental care.  Here are a few of the most common reason why your pet has bad breath.

Reasons for Bad Breath:

• Periodontal Disease - Just like us, pets are prone to periodontal disease.  After they are three year old, 80% of dogs and cats begin to show signs of periodontal disease.  This can cause bad breath as bacteria and plaque build.
• Teething - Puppies and kittens both have bad breath when they are teething.  Fortunately, this should only last a few months.
• Oral Disease - Gum inflammation, oral masses, and other problems with the gums can create crevices where bacteria can get stuck and grow.

The best way to prevent bad breath and keep your pet's teeth beautiful and healthy is with regular brushing.  We recommend training your pet early on so that they become used to the habit and bringing them into our practice for annual teeth cleanings.  This will help make sure that their teeth stay healthy and that you avoid smelly breath.

Check out this article for more information on why your pet is suffering from bad breath and what you can do to alleviate the issue.  You can also contact our office with any questions you may have!  

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