Canine periodontal disease | Gingivitis and periodontal disease in dogs and cats

Gingivitis in dogs and cats is a nonspecific term referring to inflammation of the gingivae (gums). Periodontal disease in dogs and cats is a plaque-induced, progressive inflammatory disease affecting the gingiva, periodontal ligaments (connective tissue between the tooth root and socket), and alveolar bone.

The presence and proliferation of certain species of anaerobic bacteria and the inflammatory responses of the host contribute to the progressive destruction of the periodontium. As the supportive connective tissues and adjacent bone are weakened, teeth become loose and may be lost. Periodontal disease itself causes discomfort and pain and, if left untreated, can lead to bacteremia. In a study of 39 dogs with periodontal disease, 15% had bacteremia on presentation. This increased to 67% after veterinary dental manipulation. Cats with periodontis are similarly susceptible to bacteremia. As stated previously, the bacteremia associated with periodontis disease is thought to be a risk factor for kidney disease, bacterial endocarditis, and pulmonary disease, especially in older animals.

Initial stages of gingivitis are caused by the persistence of dental plaque and calculus. When a clean tooth surface is exposed to saliva, a pellicle, composed of a thin layer of glycoprotein, forms within minutes. Plaque-forming bacteria, which are part of the normal oral flora, adhere to the pellicle and proliferate. Within 24 hours, a smooth layer of plaque covers the entire tooth surface. Plaque is a soft, gelatinous material composed of bacteria and their metabolic byproducts, oral debris, and salivary components. Mature plaque is not removed by normal actions of the tongue or by rinsing the mouth. Rather, mechanical abrasion from chewing or tooth brushing is necessary for plaque removal.

Left undisturbed, aerobic and facultative anaerobic bacteria proliferate as the plaque thickens and matures. Over time, salivary calcium salts are deposited on the plaque, producing calculus. Calculus is a hard deposit that provides a rough surface, promoting accumulation of more plaque and also contributing to tissue damage as it extends into the gingival sulcus. Gingivitis occurs when plaque and calculus form at the neck of the tooth, leading to inflammation and tissue damage. As the gingival sulcus enlarges into a periodontal pocket, the area provides an oxygen-depleted environment that allows proliferation of anaerobic bacteria. Periodontal disease becomes established when the periodontal ligament is exposed to plaque, bacteria, and bacterial byproducts.

In some dogs and cats, gingivitis persists without progressing into periodontis. However, in most cases, untreated gingivitis and periodontal disease include oral malodor, gingival sensitivity and bleeding, tooth loss, and difficulty eating.

Canine periodontal disease diagnostic plan:

History
Physical examination
Oral Examination

Canine periodontal disease therapy:

Tooth scaling above and below the gumline
Tooth polishing
Extraction
Surgery
Antibacterials
Tooth brushing

Canine periodontal disease dietary plan:

Postsurgery or extractions, a food with nutritional characteristics that support tissue repair. A soft food may minimize postprocedural discomfort. Long term, a food with formulation and texture that slows the accumulation of plaque and tartar.

We recommend:

Animals' Apawthecary Fidodent Mouth Formula for Dogs and Cats