Certain cats and dogs can be predisposed to specific dental complications that arise from or are associated with gingivitis; however, initial stages of feline gingivitis and gingivitis in dogs are nearly equally common. In both cats and dogs, if owners do not provide regular dental cleaning, the teeth and gums will develop a thin film of protein. This protein stems from food, saliva, and dead cells, and if it is not cleaned it will lead to bacterial plaque buildup. Both canine and feline gingivitis occur when plaque along the gum causes inflammation. Red or swollen gums as an indication of gingivitis and veterinary dentistry can help reverse the problem.
Left untreated, however, gingivitis in dogs and cats leads to periodontitis, which is irreversible, though not uncontrollable. Periodontitis is an oral infection that occurs when deposits of calcium salts react with bacterial plaque, forming a hard brown or yellow tartar that together with gingivitis build-up can soon lead to inflammation and infection of the deeper tissues surrounding teeth. Periodontitis can cause bleeding gums that eventually result in tooth loss as your pet’s gums recede.
Both gingivitis and periodontitis can be quite painful, so it is important to schedule regular cat and dog dental cleanings both at home and at your veterinary hospital. Cats are especially prone to painful tooth enamel resorption, which occurs at the gum line. Small breeds of dogs, certain breeds of cats, and all aging pets are at considerable risk of dental disease. In any case, our veterinarians recommend regular dental cleanings and examinations for preventative care.
If a veterinary dentist has diagnosed your cat or dog with gingivitis or periodontitis, then schedule a professional dental cleaning. Deerfield offers subgingival scaling to remove bacteria that attack your pet’s gum line. General anesthesia is required for both cat and dog dental cleaning. Our veterinarians take safety precautions during dental cleanings and periodontal therapies by performing pre-surgical blood work on elderly patients, monitoring EKGs and oxygen levels, and using gas anesthetics. To administer fluids and drugs more comfortably, we often place intravenous catheters.
Deerfield Veterinary Hospital uses digital dental x-rays to assess your pet’s tooth and oral health. Should your pet require gingival surgery or tooth extractions, we will perform the procedure during the dental cleaning to avoid multiple uses of anesthetics. After finally polishing your cat’s or dog’s teeth, we will prepare you for dental cleaning in-home care.
Our veterinary hospital wants to make sure your pets have smiles that last a lifetime. Whether you come to us from Springfield, Missouri, or the surrounding communities of Republic, Nixa, Ozark, Rogersville, and beyond, we are happy to partner with you on the journey of better oral pet health care.
