By: Chanda R. Miles DVM, DAVDC, Veterinary Dentistry Specialists
When it comes to our pet’s health, we typically think about vaccinations, nutrition, grooming, and exercise. But dental care is a frequently overlooked aspect of pet wellness yet one of the most common medical conditions affecting companion animals that goes unnoticed until it is advanced. This is because animals are experts at hiding discomfort. I call Conditions such as periodontal disease and tooth resorption the “silent killer” because they cause problems that are not overtly obvious to the pet parents causing pets to suffer in silence.
Periodontal disease is estimated to affect up to 70% of pets by the age of three. It starts when plaque mineralizes into tartar and firmly adheres to the tooth surface. Now plaque bacteria proliferate even more on the surface and under the gumline; a biofilm is created. This high bacteria load triggers the immune system to respond by sending substances that cause inflammation (cytokines and prostaglandins) to the mouth. This causes the gums to become red, swollen, and tender (gingivitis). Without treatment, this progresses to destruction of the tissues surrounding the tooth, including bone, leading to gingival recession, periodontal pocketing, and eventually tooth loss. This process can be uncomfortable for your pet and lead to chronic pain.
The earliest signs may be subtle starting with mild bad breath or tartar accumulation. But the bacteria are already hard at work beneath the gumline causing the inflammation and infection. Not only does periodontal disease damage the oral tissues but the bacteria can also be transported to the heart, liver, and kidneys via the bloodstream through microcracks in the gums. So what looks like a mild case of bad breath can signal a more serious underlying problem. When pets are affected with periodontal disease, they won’t scream out in pain, they quietly adapt – chewing on one side, eating more slowly, or avoiding hard treats. Many owners will interpret these changes as signs of aging rather than think oral disease as a cause.
Cats face their own unique tooth condition called tooth resorption. This is a condition where their bodies signal certain cells to start destroying tooth structure which causes holes in their teeth. This is very painful, but they continue to act normal and often give no signs of discomfort. If they have affected teeth, some signs they may exhibit could be slower to eat dry food, turning head to the side when eating, jaw chattering, or dropping food.
This Dental Health Month break the cycle of silent suffering and have your pet evaluated by your veterinarian to assess for any painful conditions your pet may have. Or if you notice any of the symptoms discussed above schedule a professional dental cleaning, full mouth radiographs, and oral exam under general anesthesia to provide a thorough evaluation to identify and treat hidden disease. Behind every healthy mouth is a happier, comfortable companion.
