Dental Disease
Dental disease encompasses a spectrum of conditions affecting the teeth and supporting structures, from mild gingivitis to severe periodontitis with tooth loss. It affects over 80% of dogs and 70% of cats by age three. The disease begins with plaque accumulation, progresses to calculus formation, and leads to gingival inflammation, periodontal pocket formation, and eventual bone loss.
Symptoms & Signs
- Bad breath (halitosis)
- Red or swollen gums
- Yellow-brown tartar buildup
- Difficulty eating or dropping food
- Pawing at the mouth
- Drooling
- Bleeding gums
- Loose or missing teeth
- Facial swelling
Causes & Risk Factors
Dental disease begins with bacterial plaque formation on tooth surfaces. Without removal, plaque mineralizes into calculus within 24-72 hours. Bacteria colonize below the gumline, triggering inflammation and immune response that destroys periodontal ligament and alveolar bone. Small breeds, brachycephalic breeds, and those with crowded teeth are predisposed.
Diagnosis
Oral examination reveals gingivitis, calculus, and tooth mobility. Dental radiographs (under anesthesia) assess bone loss, tooth root pathology, and hidden disease below the gumline. Periodontal probing measures pocket depth.
Treatment
Professional dental cleaning under general anesthesia (scaling, polishing, subgingival debridement). Extraction of severely affected teeth. Periodontal surgery for advanced cases. Home care with daily brushing, dental diets, and water additives.
Prevention
Daily tooth brushing with veterinary toothpaste. Dental diets and chews that mechanically reduce plaque. Regular professional dental assessments. Water additives with anti-plaque agents. Starting dental care early in life.
Prognosis
Gingivitis is reversible with proper treatment. Periodontitis causes irreversible bone loss but can be managed. Untreated dental disease leads to chronic pain, systemic bacterial spread, and organ damage (heart, liver, kidneys).
Affected Breeds (34)
| Breed | Species | Size |
|---|---|---|
| American Shorthair | Cat | Medium |
| Birman | Cat | Medium |
| Bombay | Cat | Medium |
| Domestic Shorthair | Cat | Medium |
| Havana Brown | Cat | Medium |
| Himalayan | Cat | Medium |
| Japanese Bobtail | Cat | Medium |
| Khao Manee | Cat | Medium |
| Korat | Cat | Medium |
| Nebelung | Cat | Medium |
| Oriental Shorthair | Cat | Medium |
| Persian | Cat | Medium |
| Russian Blue | Cat | Medium |
| Somali | Cat | Medium |
| Sphynx | Cat | Medium |
| Tonkinese | Cat | Medium |
| Bichon Frise | Dog | Small |
| Brussels Griffon | Dog | Toy |
| Chihuahua | Dog | Small |
| Chinese Crested | Dog | Toy |
| Dachshund | Dog | Medium |
| Havanese | Dog | Small |
| Italian Greyhound | Dog | Toy |
| Jack Russell Terrier | Dog | Small |
| Maltese | Dog | Small |
| Papillon | Dog | Toy |
| Pomeranian | Dog | Small |
| Pug | Dog | Small |
| Saluki | Dog | Large |
| Shih Tzu | Dog | Small |
| African Pygmy Hedgehog | Small Mammal | Tiny |
| English Angora Rabbit | Small Mammal | Small |
| Mini Rex Rabbit | Small Mammal | Small |
| Sugar Glider | Small Mammal | Tiny |