{"id":38,"date":"2026-02-03T10:44:09","date_gmt":"2026-02-03T15:44:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.xroadsanimalhospital.com\/blog\/?p=38"},"modified":"2026-01-28T12:46:37","modified_gmt":"2026-01-28T17:46:37","slug":"preventing-pet-periodontal-disease","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.xroadsanimalhospital.com\/blog\/preventing-pet-periodontal-disease\/","title":{"rendered":"Preventing Pet Periodontal Disease"},"content":{"rendered":"
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\"Preventing<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

If there is a good thing to say about periodontal disease, it\u2019s that this common condition affecting the majority of all cats and dogs. Pet periodontal disease is 100% preventable. With daily teeth brushing at home, routine dental exams and cleanings under anesthesia, pet owners can promote excellent dental health. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Part of the Plan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We pack a lot into a pet\u2019s routine wellness exam. In addition to all of the elements that comprise preventive veterinary medicine (behavior<\/a>, nutrition, vaccinations, weight, lifestyle, etc.), we venture to a place left alone by many owners: inside a pet\u2019s mouth. Even a quick flip of their lip can show us evidence of tartar buildup, a known contributor to periodontal, or gum, disease. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Know the Signs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Pet periodontal disease starts with oral bacteria. Left alone, the bacteria forms into a film (plaque) that covers the teeth. Over time, the plaque calcifies into tartar along the gumline. Buildup of tartar typically develops on the back molars where it discolors the teeth. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The first indicator that something is wrong is bad breath. Gingivitis, the first stage of periodontal disease, is characterized by inflammation of the gums. You may see redness, bleeding, or swelling inside the mouth. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Gingivitis can be stopped with a veterinary dental cleaning. If untreated, gingivitis can progress to the other stages of periodontal disease that ends with broken or lost teeth. Other signs that periodontal disease is getting worse include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n