Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease (Periodontitis) is the most common dental issue in dogs.
What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease affects the periodontium area of your pet’s mouth which includes the area of the jaw that holds the teeth in place (sockets), local ligaments, and the underlying connective tissue (gingiva). Bacteria are often the cause of periodontal disease in dogs and can wreak havoc on your pet’s teeth and surrounding area.
Early stages of periodontitis begin with inflammation and may be mistaken for gingivitis, which refers to inflammation of tissue areas of the gingiva. Periodontitis is a common disease that affects dogs and can be sufficiently controlled if it is caught in the early stages.
What are the signs that I need to look for?
Some of the early indicators are that your pet may be developing periodontitis or gingivitis.
- Discolored teeth
- Swollen or bleeding gums
- Yellowing or discoloration in the teeth
- Drooling
- Bad breath
- Significant plaque and tartar buildup
- Lack of appetite or not eating altogether
- Bleeding from the mouth
Periodontal Disease Prevention Tips
- Bi-weekly oral examination of your pet’s mouth and teeth while at home
- Make note of any early indicators and contact your Vet if they persist
- Semi-annual teeth cleaning by a licensed veterinarian
The VanVets Oral Exam and Teeth Cleaning Appointment
The vet will begin by conducting a non-anesthetic oral exam to identify any areas of potential periodontitis disease or gingivitis in your pet.
Plaque and tartar are removed from your pets’ teeth in a process called scaling. This process can be done manually or with the use of an ultrasonic scaler that uses less force in removing hardened plaque and tartar on the teeth. To reach below the gumline the veterinarian may use a Curettage tool to reach all areas of the dog’s gums.
An assessment of your pet’s oral health will be recorded by the vet and made available to pet owners as a record of note post appointment.
Treating your dog for serious periodontal disease
If your pet has serious degenerative periodontal disease, We will recommend escalating treatment at a partner clinic for surgery to extract damaged teeth and eliminate serious inflammation hazardous to your pet’s health.
Before and After Treatment: The striking results of an oral exam and teeth cleaning by a professional veterinarian that is critical in fending off the onset of gingivitis and early-stage periodontitis.
How do I know if my dog has gum disease?
Look for yellowing teeth and significant tartar buildup. Inflammation of the gumline is also a strong signal your pet needs urgent oral care.
Treating your cat for serious periodontal disease
Just like dogs, cats can experience periodontitis disease which may be challenging for the pet owner to identify.
Red flags such as inflamed gums, discolored teeth and bad breath should be periodically checked for and monitored by the pet owner. In terms of the lifecycle of your cat, regularly scheduled, semi-annual teeth cleanings are the best way to prevent any disease and potential suffering by your cat.
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Mobile Veterinary Services
We provide convenient, affordable and hassle-free veterinary care services for cats and dogs in our state-of-the-art mobile veterinary clinic. Schedule a visit at one of many pet retail locations across the valley. For even more convenience, we can bring our mobile clinic to your home! OR we can use our Tesla Mobile Paw Transporter to take your pet to and from our mobile clinic. (Travel rates vary).
Dental Cleaning
VANVETS’ licensed veterinarian professionals and technicians, provide expert anesthesia-free dental prophylaxis (cleaning).
Microchipping
Vaccines
All dogs and cats need preventative medical care in the form of vaccines. We offer a wide variety of dog vaccines.
Travel Certificates
Are you planning a vacation trip and bringing your pet? For both international and domestic travel, you will need to obtain a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI).
Diagnostic Tests
VANVETS' diagnostic onboard lab hosts a wide array of diagnostic tools to quickly assess your pet’s health and determine what therapy, if any, is required.
Diagnostic Imaging
VANVETS uses state-of-the-art ultrasound equipment to examine and evaluate your pet's health.
