Periodontal ("around the tooth") disease begins when bacteria that is present in the plaque
buildup on the teeth starts to infect the underlying structures. The affected tooth, adjacent teeth, gums,
bones and ligaments can all be affected by periodontal disease.
The good news is, periodontal disease is reversible - in the early stages. The bad news is, periodontal disease has a progressive nature, which can lead to the irreversible advanced stages causing swollen and ulcerated gums, cavities, and even tooth loss.
There are four stages of periodontal disease:
Stage 1
In this first stage, signs may include gingivitis (reddened, swollen, tender gums). Plaque may or may not
be visible, but is probably already present. Mouth odor may not be noticeable. At this stage, with proper
care, periodontal disease is reversible. If the gingivitis goes untreated, the disease will eventually
advance to stage two.
Stage 2
In stage two, the gums become more inflamed and sore. Plaque buildup is extensive and leads to some tarter
(yellow, brown hard material) formation. Mouth odor is apparent and the animal may experience some drooling
(due to oral pain). If caught early and treated properly, this stage is also usually reversible, if not it
can lead to stage three.
Stage 3
This is the stage in which periodontal disease becomes irreversible and can lead to permanent tooth/gum
damage. Thick tartar formation is obvious, gums are very inflamed and may be starting to recede. These
are just the signs we can actually see.
Below the gum line, where we can't see, periodontal disease has started to cause damage to underlying bones
and ligaments. The mouth will be very sore and odor will be persistent. Treatment may include dental
cleaning, tooth extraction, oral radiographs, and antibiotic therapy.
Stage 4
This is the advanced stage of periodontal disease. Heavy tartar formation is seen, gums will be receded and
sensitive. Underlying bones and ligaments are affected leading to infection, bleeding, loss of gum
attachment and tooth/bone loss.
Due to the bleeding of the gum tissue, this is the stage where bacteria could enter the bloodstream, possibly
affecting the heart, liver, and/or kidneys. Mouth odor may be nearly unbearable and the animal's mouth is
quite painful. At this stage, the treatment would very likely include the extraction of one or more teeth
to help the animal's mouth become less painful.
Whether reversible or not, the treatment of choice for all stages of periodontal disease is a professional
teeth cleaning and polishing (dental prophylaxis) by a veterinarian.
