Lakewood Animal Hospital

36097 Goodwin Dr.
Locust Grove, VA 22508

(540)972-2203

www.lakewoodanimalhospital.org

 

Dental Disease

Periodontitis is the inflammation and infection of the periodontal ligament which holds each of the teeth in the bone.  The bacteria in the mouth grows and adheres to the tooth surface and eventually leads to inflammation, infection, progressive loss of the bone around the teeth, and tooth loss. 


Grade 1 Gingivitis  Grade 1

Grade 2 Gingivitis  Grade 2

Periodontal Disease Grade 3  Grade 3

Grade 4 Periodontal Disease  Grade 4


Grade 1 and Grade 2 periodontal disease are reversible if treated with a thorough professional cleaning. Teeth with Grade 3 periodontal disease can only be saved after a thorough cleaning and treatment and with very aggressive home care. Unfortunately, teeth with Grade 4 periodontal disease are not salvageable. They require extraction since they are a constant source of pain and infection.

  


 

MYTH: It is normal for dog's and cat's teeth to fall out as they age.

TRUTH: The loss of teeth in older animals is the painful result of progressive periodontal disease and infections which have been left untreated.

Tooth X-Ray

(The large black outline around the left root of the large tooth on this x-ray indicates bone loss from severe periodontal disease.)

Our goal is to partner with you to keep your pet's teeth healthy so they never develop irreversible periodontal disease like the tooth in the x-ray above!

WHO IS AT RISK FOR PERIODONTAL DISEASE?

*  All cats and dogs are at risk!  In fact, over 70% of cats and dogs over three years of age have periodontal disease.

*  Small breed dogs have an especially high risk of periodontal disease.

*  Individual genetics play a very important role in the development of periodontal disease.

Cat and Dog


 

The vet said my animal needs a dental cleaning.  Is there anything I can do at home instead?

There are lots of products on the market for home care. Many of them are excellent products and can increase your pet's oral hygiene However, even with regular brushing, your pet will still need professional cleanings!  (Remember that humans are encouraged to brush twice a day and still have a professional cleaning twice each year!) Additionally, the use of some of these Group of animalsproducts, including tooth brushes and chews, can actually be painful to your pet if they are used in the face of infected or loose teeth.  After a professional cleaning you can start a home care routine that works for you and your pet!

 

Why do the cleanings for my pet cost more than my own cleanings?

Two words: general anesthesia!  In order to effectively evaluate all the teeth, obtain full mouth x-rays, properly clean and polish all the teeth and keep your pet safe and worry free, we need to put them under general anesthesia.