Feb. is Dental Health Month 2 of 4

Staging of Periodontal Disease: Where Does Your Pet Stand??
There are four different stages of dental disease, and depending on what stage your pet is at, tooth loss can be a factor.

Stage 1: Gingivitis
Gums are red and swollen, with mild tartar starting to form. Dental cleaning and at home care can reverse the inflammation. Remember, we want the teeth and gums to never leave this stage.

Stage 2: Early Periodontitis
This is the early stage of periodontal disease, where gums are starting to recede (gingival recession). Bacteria are starting to form a layer of film on the teeth. Tartar and gingivitis will be present. You may also notice halitosis (bad breath). Dental cleaning and at home care can help to stop the progression, and are vital at this stage.

Stage 3: Moderate Periodontitis
Plaque is moderate to severe, gums are continuing to recede, and bone loss has increased to 25-50%. This is leaving sensitive parts of the tooth exposed. Halitosis will be strong, and you may notice blood on chew toys. A dental prophy is vital, and tooth extractions may be needed. Cleaning and at home care will help to save teeth that are left.

Stage 4: Advanced Periodontitis
Bone loss around the teeth is significant and greater than 50%. This can leave the jaw weak and more susceptible to fracture. The gums may bleed easily, and your pet’s mouth may become too painful to eat. Bacterial infection is severe, and has the potential to spread via the blood stream to vital organs. Halitosis will be very noticeable. Tooth extractions will be more likely, and higher in number. It is very important to not let your pet’s teeth reach this stage.

For questions on what stage your pet is at, schedule your free dental exam with our licensed veterinary technician at Hampton Cove Animal Hospital.