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Boca y dientes

Periodontal disease

Infection and inflammation of the gums and the structures that hold the teeth in place. It is the most common disease in adult dogs and cats. Beyond the mouth, the bacteria can damage the heart, liver and kidneys.

Moderate🐕 Dogs🐈 Cats

Symptoms to watch for

  • • Bad breath (halitosis) — the first sign, often overlooked
  • • Tartar build-up (yellowish-brown deposits)
  • • Red, swollen or bleeding gums
  • • Pain when eating, chewing on one side only
  • • Loose or lost teeth
  • • Drooling

Causes

Build-up of bacterial plaque that mineralises into tartar. Without dental hygiene, it progresses until it destroys the tooth's supporting tissues. Small and brachycephalic breeds are more prone to it.

Diagnosis

Examination of the mouth. A full assessment and treatment are carried out under general anaesthesia (probing and dental X-rays).

Treatment

Professional dental cleaning under anaesthesia (ultrasonic scaling) and extraction of teeth beyond saving. Afterwards, maintenance at home. Once tartar has formed, it cannot be removed at home.

Prevention

Regular tooth brushing (ideally daily, with pet toothpaste — the human kind is toxic), dental chews and toys, specific diets, and regular oral check-ups.

When should you see the vet?

See your vet if there is persistent bad breath, visible tartar or red gums. Bad breath is NOT normal: it is the first warning of an infection that can damage internal organs.

Consult a vet

WetAi guides you and takes you to the vet; it does not diagnose.

Notice: this information is for general guidance and educational purposes only. It does NOT replace diagnosis or treatment by a registered veterinary surgeon. If you notice any symptoms, always consult a professional. Wallapets accepts no responsibility for the use of this information without veterinary supervision.

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