Periodontics

Unmasking the Dangers

Periodontal disease poses a significant threat to our pets’ oral health. Left untreated, it can lead to a host of problems, including inflamed gums, persistent bad breath, loose teeth, and even abscesses. But the dangers extend beyond the mouth. Bacteria from the oral cavity can enter the bloodstream, potentially affecting organs systems and impairing immune function. Periodontal disease can even make our pets’ chronic conditions harder to manage, like diabetes and arthritis. It’s crucial to recognize the risks and take action to protect our pets from the detrimental effects of periodontal disease.

Professional Dental Care

One of the primary treatment options for periodontal disease in dogs and cats is professional dental care under general anesthesia. These thorough assessments and plaque reduction procedures, performed by veterinary professionals, involve scaling to remove plaque and tartar buildup and polishing to smoothe tooth surfaces. Professional dental care under general anesthesia reach areas that regular brushing cannot, effectively reducing the risk of further gum disease progression. By scheduling regular care procedures, pet owners can stay one step ahead in the fight against periodontal disease.

Advanced Treatments

Root Planing and Gingival Flap Surgery

In severe cases of periodontal disease, more advanced treatments may be necessary to halt its progression. Root planing is a procedure that involves cleaning exposed surfaces of tooth roots to remove bacteria and prevent further damage and gum loss. Gingival flap surgery is another option, which involves surgically lifting the gum tissue to access and clean roots thoroughly. These treatments aim to eliminate deep pockets of infection and restore oral health. These advanced procedures are quite technique sensitive, and the best outcomes are achieved by Board Certified Veterinary Dentists^TM. The specialists at Missoula Veterinary Dentistry have completed residency training in periodontics, among other advanced surgical and oral care techniques.

Extractions

In cases where teeth are severely damaged or infected, extractions may be necessary to alleviate pain and prevent further complications. While extractions may seem daunting, they are often a necessary step in the treatment process, ensuring our pets’ long-term oral health and overall well-being. Some of our happiest patients (and families) have no teeth, at all. If you have concerns about your pet’s quality of life after surgical extractions, we would be happy to connect you with other families in Missoula and beyond to discuss pet health and happiness following surgical care.

Prevention through Home Care

Prevention is always better than cure, and the same holds true for periodontal disease. Establishing a robust oral care routine at home can significantly reduce the risk of dental issues. Regular brushing with pet-friendly toothpaste, dental chews, and appropriate dental diets can help control plaque and tartar buildup, maintaining oral health between professional care procedures.

Periodontal disease can wreak havoc on our pets’ oral health and overall well-being. By understanding the risks and exploring the various treatment options available, we can protect our family pets from the perils of this silent disease. From annual dental care procedures to advanced treatments like root planing and extractions, there are solutions for every stage of periodontal disease. Coupled with consistent home care, we can give our pets the best chance at a lifetime of healthy smiles.