Most pet owners know that their furry friends need proper nutrition, exercise, and regular vet checkups. But what about dental care? Unfortunately, many pet owners don’t realize that periodontal disease (gum disease) is one of the most common and serious health issues in pets.

Periodontal disease doesn’t just affect your pet’s mouth—it can lead to painful infections, tooth loss, and even life-threatening complications affecting the heart, liver, and kidneys. At Camden Animal Hospital, we want to help pet owners recognize the risks of periodontal disease and take action before it becomes a serious problem.

If you’ve never thought much about your pet’s dental health, now is the time to start! Let’s dive into what periodontal disease is, why it’s so dangerous, and how you can prevent it.

What Is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease is an infection of the tissues surrounding the teeth, caused by plaque and tartar buildup. It progresses in four stages, starting with mild gingivitis and leading to severe bone and tooth loss if left untreated.

• Stage 1: Gingivitis – Mild redness and inflammation of the gums due to plaque buildup.
• Stage 2: Early Periodontitis – More noticeable gum inflammation, along with bad breath and tartar accumulation.
• Stage 3: Moderate Periodontitis – Pain, more severe bone loss, and loose teeth may become evident.
• Stage 4: Advanced Periodontitis – Severe infection, tooth loss, and potential damage to internal organs.

Once periodontal disease reaches Stage 3 or 4, the damage is often irreversible, and teeth may need to be extracted to prevent further infection.

How Does Periodontal Disease Affect Your Pet’s Overall Health?

Many pet owners assume dental disease only affects the mouth, but it can have serious consequences for the entire body.

Chronic Pain & Tooth Loss

Gum infections cause significant pain, making it hard for pets to eat. Many animals suffer in silence, as they instinctively hide pain. By the time symptoms are noticeable, the disease is usually in an advanced stage.

Bacteria Spread to Vital Organs

When bacteria from infected gums enter the bloodstream, they can travel to the heart, liver, and kidneys, increasing the risk of heart disease, kidney infections, and liver damage. These conditions can shorten your pet’s lifespan and require costly medical treatments.

Signs Your Pet May Have Periodontal Disease

Many pets show no obvious signs of pain, so you will want to check for these warning signs:

• Bad breath that doesn’t go away
• Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
• Yellow or brown tartar buildup on teeth
• Drooling or difficulty chewing
• Pawing at the mouth or face swelling
• Loose or missing teeth

If you notice any of these symptoms, your pet likely already has some stage of periodontal disease and should see a vet immediately.

Preventing Periodontal Disease: What You Can Do

The good news? Periodontal disease is largely preventable with regular pet dental care. Here’s how you can protect your pet’s oral health:

Brush Their Teeth Regularly

Brushing your pet’s teeth at least 3 times per week helps remove plaque before it hardens into tartar. Use a pet-safe toothbrush and toothpaste (never human toothpaste).

Use Dental Water Additives & Oral Rinses

If your pet refuses brushing, try dental water additives or oral rinses to help control bacteria and freshen their breath. Talk to the vet to make sure these are appropriate for your pet.

Provide Dental Chews & Toys

Chewing is a natural way for pets to clean their teeth! Offer dental chews and chew toys to help reduce plaque buildup.

Feed a Dental-Friendly Diet

Certain pet foods are designed to reduce plaque and tartar. Ask your vet for recommendations.

Schedule Regular Professional Dental Cleanings

Even with the best at-home care, your pet still needs professional cleanings to remove plaque and tartar below the gumline. At Camden Animal Hospital, we provide thorough dental cleanings under safe anesthesia to keep your pet’s mouth healthy and pain-free

Book Your Pet’s Dental Exam Today!

Periodontal disease is painful, dangerous, and entirely preventable with proper care. Don’t wait until your pet shows signs of discomfort—early intervention is key to a longer, healthier life.

Schedule a dental exam for your pet at Camden Animal Hospital today! Call (870) 836-6879 or book a consultation online.