Signs of Pet Dental Disease

Periodontal Disease: The Silent and Stealthy Pet Dental Disease

Periodontal Disease is the most prevalent type of pet dental disease in both dogs and cats. Also known as gum disease, the destructive condition sneaks up on animals just as it does on humans, who share susceptibility to it. In the initial stage, pets exhibit no symptoms other than bad breath, so the disease typically goes undetected until it leaves its own evidence. Unfortunately this evidence is a sign that detrimental damage has already occurred. Most owners have no idea their pet is suffering until gums become inflamed or begin to recede. What they cannot see is that the soft tissue surrounding the teeth have been damaged, bone loss has occurred, and, in advanced cases, teeth are loose or missing. Winston-Salem Veterinary hospital professionals urge both dog and cat owners to be vigilant, but especially those with dogs since they are five times more likely to develop this type of pet dental disease.

Possible Signs that Your Pet Needs Winston-Salem Pet Dental Care

Animal instinct equates pain with weakness and vulnerability so your pet will most likely exhibit no outward signs that their gums or teeth hurt. Therefore it's up you as a conscientious owner to keep an eye on your dog or cat and seek out Winston-Salem pet dental care if you notice any of the following:

• Red or bleeding gums or blood in water or food dishes
• Chewing on one side of the mouth
• Nasal discharge or sneezing
• Loose teeth
• Bumps in the mouth
• Ropey or thick saliva
• Shying back when the head is touched

While none of these are definitive signs of periodontal disease, our veterinarian can give the pet a detailed examination that may enable her to diagnose it if it is present. Diagnosis and treatment are vitally important since bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and be carried around the body. Studies in dogs have shown that unchecked periodontal disease can cause microscopic changes in the heart, liver, and kidneys putting them at risk for liver, kidney, or heart disease.