CANINE PERIODONTAL DISEASE
Description
Periodontal disease in dogs is a common condition that damages the structures that surround and support the teeth, such as the gums, bone tissue, and periodontal ligament.
Symptoms
Signs of periodontal disease in dogs can include: – Persistent bad breath. – Red, swollen or bleeding gums. – Teeth covered in tartar. – Loss of appetite or difficulty eating. – Excessive drooling. – Loose or fallen teeth. – Changes in chewing habits or difficulty picking up objects. - Pain.
When to consult
Remember that prevention and early detection are essential to treat periodontal disease in dogs. If you notice signs of periodontal disease in your pet, it is recommended that you consult your veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment. To prevent or treat periodontal disease in dogs, it is important to follow these steps: – Tooth brushing: Brush your dog's teeth regularly with a special dog toothbrush and toothpaste. Start gradually to get your dog used to the process. – Adequate nutrition: Offer a balanced and adequate diet to maintain your dog's dental health. Ask your vet about food options that help reduce plaque and tartar buildup. – Dental Toys and Treats: Provides chew toys and treats designed to promote dental health and help reduce plaque buildup. – Professional dental cleanings: Schedule regular dental cleanings performed by a veterinarian. During the cleaning, tartar is removed and the teeth are examined for more serious problems.
Causes
It develops from the accumulation of bacterial plaque and tartar on the teeth, which leads to inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) and thus leads to gum retraction and therefore the exposure of the tooth.
complications
If it is not treated, it can progress towards a more advanced periodontal disease, affecting and producing osteolysis in the jaw bone. Periodontal disease not only affects dogs' oral health, but it can also have more serious consequences on their overall health. Bacteria present in the mouth can enter the bloodstream and affect vital organs such as the heart, liver and kidneys.
Diagnosis
It is obtained after exploring the mouth.
Treatment
Treatment of periodontal disease in dogs generally involves professional dental cleaning under anesthesia, which includes removing tartar and plaque both above and below the gum line and polishing the teeth. In some cases, if there is serious damage to the supporting tissues, it is necessary to extract the affected teeth, since in this state they have no use and cause pain. It is important to anesthetize the animal to allow intubation. Intubation (placement of a tube in the trachea) is essential in this case, not only for the administration of anesthesia but also to prevent the lavage fluids from passing into the lung and causing severe aspiration pneumonia.
