Dr. Cornelia Fricke

VETERINARY PRACTICE & PET DENTIST

THE MOST COMMON DISEASE IN DOGS

What is periodontitis?

Periodontitis is the most common disease in dogs. It is a disease of the oral cavity in which the periodontium is inflamed.

It often begins at the age of 2 to 3 years and increases in severity with age. 80 % of 6-year-old dogs suffer from the advanced form.

What causes periodontitis?

This is caused by bacteria from dental plaque. If these thicken to form plaque, the bacteria can grow more freely and cause inflammation of the periodontium with their metabolic waste products. Gradually, the inflammation extends to the root of the teeth.

By activating the body's own defenses, the periodontitis progresses further. Gum pockets form and the supporting apparatus of the tooth is increasingly destroyed. The gums and jawbone continue to recede. This is a process that can no longer be reversed. If the root division site is exposed, the tooth can usually no longer be saved.

How can I notice this disease as a pet owner?

The dog smells from its mouth, is quieter and does not like to move. When you look in the mouth, you can see tartar and reddened gums. Often the dog's slowness is not due to age, but to periodontitis. In addition to the constant pain the animal suffers from, the severe inflammatory process also causes inflammation of the kidneys, heart muscle and liver.

What can I do as a pet owner?

To prevent periodontitis, you should brush your dog's teeth daily with a special 2-headed dog toothbrush with dog toothpaste. Unfortunately, the dental treats advertised in pet stores and in commercials do not help.

If the periodontitis is advanced, only a periodontal treatment at the vet will help. This involves removing the tartar from the crown of the tooth, the gum pockets and the root of the tooth. If the periodontium is destroyed, the tooth must be removed. Whether the tooth can still be preserved is decided after the dental x-ray. To prevent further progression of the disease, daily tooth brushing is a must.

Advanced periodontitis in a cat. The exposed roots on both molars are clearly visible (source: AVCD).

Written

Dr. med. vet. Cornelia Fricke  

Specialist veterinarian and practice owner

Additional qualifications in cage, zoo and wild birds and reptiles

Veterinary densist (German Society for Animal Dentistry)

VETERINARY PRACTICE & PET DENTIST

Dr. Cornelia Fricke