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EW!!!
Dental
Awareness
Gum disease can refer to
gingivitis (inflamed and sore
gums) or more advanced
periodontitis (loss of the tooth’s
attachment to supporting
structures). This sequence of
events is the number one cause
of dental disease and early
tooth loss in dogs and cats.
This can be caused by bacteria,
or occasionally viral infections
that can have serious
consequences for the health
of the rest of the body.
What is gum disease?
By
Greg Elliott-Moustache BVSc, MRCVS
Shepton Vets
Why does it occur?
Gum disease is usually
started by a development of
plaque build up on the teeth.
This is often due to a poor
diet, and is readily associated
with feeding a ‘wet’ diet
(tinned or pouches),
especially in cats.
There are also several
risk factors:
l
Older age
l
Small breeds (under 10kg)
l
Crowded teeth
l
Uneven jaws
l
‘Brachycephalic’
(squashed nose) breeds,
such as Pugs or Bulldogs
Moderate Periodontitis