Fight Periodontitis in Dogs and Cats

Dental diseases, especially periodontitis, are the most common health problems in our pets, affecting about 14% of dogs and about 21% of cats overall.

Periodontitis is an inflammatory disease of the tooth-supporting apparatus (gums, bone, and connective tissue). It is usually caused by bacteria-laden dental plaque and, if left untreated, can lead to tooth loss and severe pain. If bacteria enter the bloodstream, they can reach numerous organs and cause serious diseases, e.g. of the heart.

However, periodontitis is treatable and, more importantly, preventable if action is taken early.

Steps to stop periodontitis:

Regular veterinary dental check-ups:

The first and most important step is a professional examination by a veterinarian. A thorough dental examination, often including X-rays, is necessary to determine the extent of the periodontitis.

In advanced cases, professional teeth cleaning under anesthesia is essential. This involves removing the tartar (calculus). The plaque is also thoroughly removed from below the gum line.

Professional teeth cleaning:

The teeth cleaning (scaling and polishing) removes hard tartar (calculus) that has accumulated above and below the gum line.

After cleaning, the teeth are polished to smooth the rough surface of the teeth and slow down the adhesion of new plaque.

Tooth extractions (in severe cases):

In advanced cases of periodontitis, where the tooth-supporting apparatus is already severely damaged, it may be necessary to extract affected teeth to avoid pain and further infections.

Preventive measures:

Brushing teeth:

Regular tooth brushing is the most effective method to prevent plaque and tartar (calculus) formation. Ideally, brush your teeth daily with a special toothbrush and animal-friendly toothpaste (human toothpaste is toxic to animals).

It may take some time for dogs or cats to get used to brushing their teeth, but this can be achieved with patience and positive reinforcement.

Dental care products:

There are various products such as enzymatic toothpastes, dental gels or mouthwashes that can help reduce plaque formation and protect the gums.

Dental care snacks or chew toys can also support dental hygiene by mechanically removing plaque.

Special diets:

There are special feeds that are designed to mechanically clean the teeth by rubbing off plaque. These diets or treats are often designed to have a cleaning effect when chewed.
Diets that contain ingredients that chemically reduce plaque deposits (e.g. chlorhexidine or hexametaphosphate) can also have a supportive effect.

Regular follow-up examinations:

Even if the condition of the teeth improves, dogs and cats should be examined by a veterinarian at least once a year to detect possible relapses early.

Importance of early detection:

Periodontitis is a progressive disease that develops slowly, often without obvious symptoms in the early stages.
Signs may include:

• Bad breath (halitosis)
• Redness or bleeding of the gums
• Loss of appetite or refusal to eat
• Tooth loss or loose teeth
• Excessive drooling or difficulty eating

The earlier periodontitis is detected and treated, the better the chances of stopping the disease and restoring oral health. Prevention is key, and consistent dental care can help ensure the long-term health of dogs’ and cats’ teeth.