Periodontal Disease in Dogs & Cats in Beaverton, OR
Periodontal disease is the most common clinical problem in adult dogs and cats — and most pets already have some degree of it by age three. At Premier Pet Dentistry, we diagnose and treat every stage of gum and bone disease to relieve pain, stop infection, and help your pet keep as many healthy teeth as possible.
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease is infection and inflammation of the tissues that hold the teeth in place: the gums, the periodontal ligament, and the surrounding bone. It begins when bacteria form plaque on the tooth surface. Minerals in saliva harden that plaque into tartar, which irritates the gums and allows bacteria to spread below the gumline. The earliest stage, gingivitis, is reversible. Left untreated, it progresses to bone loss, loose teeth, root abscesses, and sometimes a weakened jaw or an oronasal fistula.
Because it is painful and chronic, periodontal disease affects more than the mouth. Studies have associated it with microscopic changes in the heart, liver, and kidneys, making early treatment an important part of your pet’s overall health.
Signs of Periodontal Disease in Pets
- Persistent bad breath
- Red, swollen, receding, or bleeding gums
- Yellow or brown tartar on the teeth
- Loose, shifting, or missing teeth
- Chewing on one side, dropping food, or reluctance to play with toys
- Facial swelling, nasal discharge, or sneezing
How We Diagnose and Treat Periodontal Disease
More than half of each tooth lies below the gumline, so we perform a complete oral exam under anesthesia with full-mouth dental x-rays to measure pocket depth and bone loss. Treatment through our pet periodontics service may include professional cleaning above and below the gumline, root planing, local antibiotic therapy, periodontal surgery, and bone grafting to regenerate support for valuable teeth. When a tooth cannot be saved, we perform careful extractions through our oral surgery service.
Periodontal disease often occurs alongside other problems such as tooth resorption in cats or crowding from retained baby teeth in small dogs. Dr. Martin evaluates the whole mouth so every issue is addressed in one coordinated plan.
Preventing Periodontal Disease at Home
Daily tooth brushing with a pet-safe toothpaste remains the most effective home care. Veterinary-approved dental diets, chews, and water additives can help, and regular exams with your primary veterinarian catch problems early. We’ll recommend a home care plan that fits your pet’s temperament and your schedule. Learn more about our veterinary dental services or read our pet dentistry FAQs.
Periodontal Disease FAQs
At what age do pets get periodontal disease?
Most dogs and cats show some signs of periodontal disease by about three years of age. Small-breed dogs and pets with crowded teeth are often affected earlier.
Can periodontal disease be reversed?
Gingivitis, the earliest stage, can be reversed with professional cleaning and good home care. Once bone loss has occurred, it cannot be fully reversed, but treatment can stop progression and, in some cases, bone grafting can regenerate support.
Is bad breath in pets normal?
No. Persistent bad breath is one of the most common signs of periodontal disease and should be evaluated.
Why does my pet need anesthesia for a periodontal cleaning?
Anesthesia allows us to clean below the gumline, measure periodontal pockets, and take dental x-rays. These steps are essential and cannot be done safely or thoroughly on an awake pet.
Can periodontal disease affect my pet’s organs?
Studies have associated periodontal disease with microscopic changes in the heart, liver, and kidneys, which is why prompt treatment matters.
How often should my pet have a professional cleaning?
It depends on your pet’s breed, age, and home care. Many pets benefit from an annual cleaning, while pets with advanced disease may need more frequent periodontal care.
Will my pet need teeth extracted?
Not always. We aim to save teeth through periodontal therapy whenever practical. Extractions are recommended when a tooth is too damaged to keep comfortable and healthy.
Schedule a Periodontal Evaluation for Your Pet
Call 503-PREMIER ((503) 773-6437) or request an appointment with Premier Pet Dentistry in Beaverton, OR . We proudly care for dogs and cats from Beaverton and across the Portland metro.