Stages of Periodontitis, or Periodontal Disease
Periodontitis is a progressive disease that gets worse the longer it goes untreated.
Stage 1: Periodontal Disease Symptoms Including Gingivitis
Your veterinarian will notice mild inflammation or discoloration to the gums surrounding the teeth. No bone loss has occurred, however, and the condition can be reversed with basic dental cleaning and at-home care.
Stage 2: Early-Stage Periodontal Disease
The entire gum line is inflamed and swollen, with teeth possibly showing their first signs of decay. The damage, however, is still reversible with a professional cleaning and polishing by your veterinarian. Pets with Grade 2 periodontal disease will have noticeably bad breath, and may experience pain while chewing.
Stage 3: Moderate Periodontal Disease
Your pet’s gums are cherry red, severely inflamed, and prone to bleeding. Below the gum, plaque is causing pockets to form, and the bones that connect the teeth to the jaw are beginning to rot. At this point, your pet is probably experiencing frequent mouth pain. Some irreversible damage is probable and your vet will likely urge intervention through a dental cleaning and polishing under general anesthesia.
Stage 4: Severe Periodontal Disease
A chronic bacterial infection is destroying the gums and causing abscessation of, or pockets of pus on, many tooth roots. In rare cases, the infection may have spread to the bloodstream where it can cause heart, liver, and kidney damage! Your pet has loose teeth, receding gums, and bone loss below the gum line. The animal is probably experiencing a lot of pain. Dental prophy is necessary at this point, and your vet may have to extract some teeth.
Receive 10% off your pet’s dental procedure.
When you schedule the procedure within 30 days of receiving a vet’s cleaning recommendation.
Your Pet May Need Veterinary Dental Attention If You Notice Any of the Following:
The following symptoms could indicate a serious problem with your pet’s teeth and gums.
Bad breath
Blood, pus, or other discharge from around the teeth
Vomiting
Obsessive pawing or clawing
around the face
Decreased appetite
Trouble eating dry food
Red or swollen gums
Swelling on the side of
the cheek
Behavioral changes