Periodontal Disease in Pets 

Imagine this: your pet happily greets you with tail wags or gentle purrs. Everything seems hunky-dory with her health. But little do you know that behind that sweet demeanor, her gums might be telling a different story.

Periodontal disease is a sneaky, yet common condition that can silently wreak havoc on your pet’s health. From puppies and kittens to our beloved senior pets, proper pet dental care is essential to keeping those pearly whites (and your pet’s overall health) in check.

Here’s what the team at PetSmart Veterinary Services – Snellville would like you to know about pet dental disease.

What Exactly Is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease starts innocently enough as plaque—a sticky, bacteria-filled film that forms on your pet’s teeth. (And yours, if you don’t brush them!) Left unchecked, plaque hardens into tartar, which irritates the gums and causes inflammation.

Over time, the condition can escalate into infection, bone loss, and even tooth loss. Worse yet, it can allow bacteria to enter your pet’s bloodstream and affect major organs like the heart and kidneys.

Why Senior Pets Need Extra Attention

While pets of any age can—and unfortunately, usually do—develop dental issues, senior pets are at greater risk. As pets grow older, they may have weakened immune systems, which makes it harder for them to fight off infections caused by poor oral hygiene. Add in years of built-up tartar and undiagnosed dental disease, and it’s easy to see why senior dental care is a must.

For older pets, neglecting their teeth can also mean difficulty eating or even chronic pain. This majorly impacts their quality of life. Regular dental exams and a focus on prevention are vital for your aging companions.

The Power of Regular Dental Exams and Teeth Cleaning

Think of dental exams as a wellness check for your pet’s mouth. During these visits, your vet can catch early signs of dental disease, like red gums or minor plaque buildup. Professional teeth cleaning goes deeper—literally—by removing tartar below the gum line, where bacteria love to hide.

For senior pets, these cleanings are even more important. They prevent advanced stages of periodontal disease that might require tooth extractions or lead to broader health issues.

Keeping Periodontal Disease at Bay

Preventing periodontal disease doesn’t have to be complicated. A consistent pet dental routine can make a world of difference:

• Brush their teeth with pet-safe toothpaste (yes, it’s a thing!) at least three times per week.
• Offer dental chews or toys that fight plaque naturally, plus water additives that help keep teeth healthy.
• Schedule those all-important annual dental exams and cleanings.

Periodontal disease doesn’t have to steal your pet’s health or happiness. With regular care and attention—especially for senior pets—you can ensure their golden years are filled with plenty of happy smiles.

Are you ready to schedule your pet’s next dental exam and cleaning? The skillful team at PetSmart Veterinary Services – Snellville is here to help. Call us at  (470) 646-3240 to schedule your pet’s appointment!