Our dogs may not express discomfort from toothaches in the same ways humans do, but keeping an eye out for their oral health and staying informed about dog periodontal disease is vital for their overall well-being. Periodontal disease, though common, often lurks unnoticed, posing a significant threat to our canine companions' dental hygiene. In this article, we explore the intricacies of periodontal disease in dogs, shedding light on what it is, its causes, symptoms, and, crucially, how proactive pet parents can combat this silent dental issue.

Understanding Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease in dogs is a progressive inflammatory condition that impacts the structures supporting their teeth. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, periodontal disease is the most common dental condition in dogs. They state that: “By the time your pet is 3 years old, he or she will very likely have some early evidence of periodontal disease, which will worsen as your pet grows older if effective preventive measures aren’t taken.” This shows how important it is to understand what this disease is, and how to help prevent your pup from developing it.

Causes of Periodontal Disease

The primary culprit behind periodontal disease is the accumulation of plaque, a bacterial film that adheres to the teeth. When left unchecked, plaque hardens into tartar, kickstarting the disease's advancement. Neglecting regular dental care, such as brushing and professional cleanings, significantly heightens the risk of periodontal disease by fostering plaque and tartar buildup, leading to inflammation and potential dental damage.

Signs and Symptoms

Early indicators include halitosis (bad breath), inflamed and swollen gums, and mild discomfort during meals. Advanced symptoms manifest as excessive drooling, loose or missing teeth, chewing difficulties, and bleeding gums.

Stages of Periodontal Disease

Stage 1 - Gingivitis

The beginning of periodontal disease in dogs is gingivitis which can be seen as gum inflammation and redness.

Stage 2 - Early Periodontitis

If the gingivitis is not treated, the disease can progress to the next stage of early periodontitis. This signifies damage to the tooth-supporting structures, marking a more advanced phase of the disease.

Stage 3 - Moderate Periodontitis

Further advancement leads to stage three. Including increased damage, potential tooth mobility, and the possibility of abscess formation.

Stage 4 - Severe Periodontitis

Stage 4 entails extensive damage to the supporting structures, severely elevating the risk of tooth loss, infections, and the potential for systemic health implications.

If you notice any of these symptoms or anything out of the ordinary with your pup’s dental health, make an appointment with your veterinarian as soon as possible!

Prevention and Management

Establishing a consistent dental care regimen, including routine teeth brushing, regular veterinary checkups and a healthy diet are all pivotal in thwarting plaque and tartar buildup. In addition, you can incorporate supplementary dental care elements into their routine like dog dental chews or a water additive.

Periodontal disease in dogs is a prevalent yet preventable affliction that warrants attention from pet parents. Armed with knowledge about its causes, symptoms, and progression, we can proactively safeguard our pup’s oral health. Through diligent dental care and regular veterinary appointments, we equip our dogs with the tools to maintain healthy smiles and overall well-being throughout their lives. At Scenthound we are your trusted source of routine care that every dog needs, like bathing, teeth brushing, nail trimming, and ear cleaning. Find a Scenter and get your pup on the path to wellness!