Gum disease can develop in pets just as in people, however, if it is not treated, further complications can arise. At Trinity Pet Hospital in Laguna Hills, CA, we provide various treatments to alleviate any discomfort your pet may be experiencing and improve its well-being. Before scheduling your appointment, we invite you to keep reading to learn more about how gum disease is treated!
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is also known as periodontal disease. It is one of the most common dental issues for dogs, but it's also easily preventable. Gum disease occurs when plaque and tartar build-up on the teeth and can cause inflammation in the gums.
Stages of Gum Disease
Gum disease occurs in a few different stages. The first stage is gingivitis, which happens when plaque begins to harden into tartar and can cause inflammation or irritation in the gums. During the second stage, also known as early periodontal disease, the gums and bones begin to break down. Stage three is considered moderate periodontal disease and can cause up to 50% of bone loss. The final stage is advanced periodontal disease, which causes receding gums, tartar, and damaged teeth.
In the earlier stages, you'll notice little to no problems when looking at your pet’s teeth, even though the disease is progressing. We recommend consulting with our veterinarian for an evaluation and prompt treatment.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
Gum disease can be easy to overlook, particularly in the early stages. You may notice bleeding gums, receding gums, excessive drooling, and difficulty eating. Your pet may also be pawing at their mouth, not have the ability to open or close their mouth, and might have broken or missing teeth.
Diagnosis and Prevention
When you bring your pet in for a wellness exam, our vet will check their teeth. If they appear healthy, we will probably do a quick dental exam. If we notice a cause for concern, we will perform a thorough pet exam, may include X-rays and other diagnostic tests.
If gum disease is detected during the first stage, our vet can reverse it. However, if the disease progresses to the second or third state, it cannot be reversed. With routine exams and proper at-home care, you can prevent gum disease from developing in your pet.
Gum Disease Treatment
Visiting our veterinarian annually can help prevent gum disease. With a dental exam, we can detect the disease early and offer treatment. If the disease is in the first stage, our vet will perform a cleaning and provide your pet with a fluoride treatment. However, in the second or third stages, we will do a deep scaling to remove tartar above and below the gum line. Then, we polish the teeth, which prevents bacteria and food from sticking to the teeth and gums.
Contact us for an Appointment Today
If you are concerned that your pet may have gum disease or simply want to keep its teeth and gums healthy, contact Trinity Pet Hospital in Laguna Hills, CA, at (949) 768-1314. We are happy to tell you more about our treatments and set you up with an appointment.