Did you know that periodontal disease (a chronic bacterial infection that affects the gums and bone supporting the teeth) is one of the most common problems seen by vets in cats and dogs? And yes, it has the same progression and characteristics as the periodontal disease affecting us humans.

In the case of our pets, if left untreated, periodontal disease can shorten their lives considerably, due to the effects of chronic infection on the heart, kidneys and liver.

Periodontal disease can affect one tooth or many teeth. It begins when the bacteria in plaque (the sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on teeth) causes the gums to become inflamed.

In the mildest form of the disease, gingivitis, the gums redden, swell and bleed easily. There is usually little or no discomfort. Gingivitis is often caused by inadequate oral hygiene. Gingivitis is reversible with professional treatment and good oral home care.

Untreated gingivitis can advance to periodontitis. With time, plaque can spread and grow below the gum line. Toxins produced by the bacteria in plaque irritate the gums. The toxins stimulate a chronic inflammatory response in which the body in essence turns on itself, and the tissues and bone that support the teeth are broken down and destroyed. Gums separate from the teeth, forming pockets (spaces between the teeth and gums) that become infected. As the disease progresses, the pockets deepen and more gum tissue and bone are destroyed. Often, this destructive process has very mild symptoms. Eventually, teeth can become loose and may have to be removed.

This has happened with some of our rescued dogs, especially the smaller ones.

Also be aware that if your pet has a broken tooth, they may show no symptoms. This happened to my dog, & the vet discovered it on routine exam of the mouth. He told me that he has seen many pets in his practice with serious tooth fractures & resulting abscesses (infection) when the pet showed no sign of discomfort. In my pet's case, she had broken off a section of an upper molar, & the nerve root was exposed. Luckily, it was caught in time before any major infection set in, and the tooth was extracted.

Links:

Brushing cat's teeth: http://cats.about.com/cs/healthissues/a/dentalcareplan.htm

Oral hygiene & your dog's health: http://www.thepetcenter.com/exa/oralhealth.html

Dental disease in cats & related health risks: http://cbs2chicago.com/health/local_story_096172111.html