What is the Periodontium?
Periodontium is a collection of supporting structures surrounding the teeth such as the:
1. Gingiva
2. Cementum
3. Periodontal ligaments
4. Alveolar bone
…Therefore when we talk about Periodontal Disease we are referring to the infection, inflammation and “diseased” state of these tooth structures.
What is Gingivitis?
Gingivitis is a general term used to describe inflammation of the gums (gingiva). There are four different grades/indexes of gingivitis beginning with:
Gingivitis index of 0: Healthy pink gums
Gingivitis index of 1 (Marginal): Mild redness, plaque and calculus/tartar formation
Gingivitis index of 2 (Established): Edema, beginning of inflammation of gingiva, no pockets, moderate gingivitis, sub-gingival plaque (below gum line)
Gingivitis index of 3 (Advanced): Edema, beginning of pocket formation, severe gingivitis, supra/sub gingival plaque and tarter.
Plaque and Calculus/Tarter is there a difference?
YES there are many differences.
Plaque
- Bacteria, saliva, food particles and sloughed epithelial cells
- Attaches to tooth
- Thin layer, yellowish
- Can start to attach within 20 minutes
Can you spot the difference on your pet’s teeth?
Calculus/Tarter
- Formed after plaque
- Absorbs calcium from the saliva
- Hard, mineralized plaque
- Is harder, chalky
- Most noticed near the salivary glands
What is halitosis?
Halitosis is a term used to describe your pet’s bad breath. Halitosis can often be the first indicator that your pet may have periodontal disease. It is the first sign most commonly noticed by owners.
What if my pet has a tooth removed?
Where possible we always try to save teeth. It is in our pet's best interests to have a full dentition (full set of teeth). However if a tooth is too infected, loose or is going to be a source of future problems then we may need to remove it. Cats and dogs do very well after teeth have been extracted. In extreme cases this can mean all of the teeth. Remember it is much better to have no tooth and a healthy gum than a retained tooth and ongoing infection.
How long does it take for my puppy/kitten's adult teeth to erupt?
