Periodontal Disease in Pets: Why Dental Care Matters More Than You Think
Most pet parents don’t think about dental health until they notice bad breath—but by then, periodontal disease may already be causing pain and damage beneath the surface.
Dental health is about much more than a bright smile—it’s an essential part of your pet’s overall wellbeing.
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease is a progressive infection of the tissues that support the teeth. It starts with plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that builds up on the teeth and gums. If not removed, plaque hardens into tartar, which leads to gum inflammation (gingivitis) and eventually infection of the tooth roots and jawbone.
Left untreated, dental disease can cause tooth loss, chronic pain, and even spread bacteria to the heart, liver, and kidneys, leading to systemic illness.
Signs of Dental Disease in Pets
It’s easy to miss the early stages since most pets continue eating even when their mouths hurt. Keep an eye out for:
- Persistent bad breath
- Drooling or pawing at the mouth
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Yellow or brown tartar buildup
- Loose or missing teeth
- Difficulty chewing or reluctance to eat
- Facial swelling or sensitivity around the muzzle
If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule a dental exam right away.
How to Protect Your Pet’s Teeth
- Schedule Regular Dental Cleanings: Professional cleanings under anesthesia allow your vet to remove plaque and tartar below the gumline—something brushing alone can’t do.
- Brush at Home: Daily or frequent brushing with pet-safe toothpaste helps prevent plaque buildup.
- Use Dental-Friendly Products: VOHC-approved dental treats, chews, and water additives can supplement brushing.
- Feed a Balanced Diet: Proper nutrition supports oral health and reduces tartar accumulation.
Why Early Dental Care Matters
Periodontal disease is progressive, meaning it only gets worse without treatment. Early intervention can prevent tooth loss, pain, and costly procedures later on. Pets with healthy mouths are happier, more energetic, and live more comfortably.
Keep Your Pet’s Smile Healthy
Regular dental care doesn’t just freshen your pet’s breath—it helps protect their whole-body health.
If it’s been more than a year since your pet’s last dental cleaning, or you’ve noticed signs of discomfort, it’s time for a checkup.
Call Partners Animal Hospital Greenville today to schedule a dental exam or cleaning and help your pet enjoy a lifetime of healthy smiles.
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At Partners Veterinary Group, we believe in energizing our team members through shared values, while helping them create value for our clients and patients. Knowing we can help make pets’ and people’s lives better motivates us to continually strive for excellence and love what we do.
Our team consistently works to build educational, supportive, and cooperative work environments that cater to positive experiences and professional growth. We’re constantly evolving, creating innovative ways to deliver cutting-edge medicine to our patients. We equip our teams with tools to enhance their skills and improve their knowledge.