It is not unusual for veterinarians to be presented with recently placed racing greyhounds with moderate to advanced periodontal disease, but it is important to realize, that although the signs may be noticed suddenly, the progression of events that lead to periodontal disease take months to years to develop. In order to understand how periodontal disease develops, an overview of normal dental anatomy is helpful. The periodontal ligament supports the tooth and connects it to the bone, acting as a kind of cushion against excessive force. The gum tissue or gingiva covers the junction between the tooth crown and the tooth root and forms a pocket known as the gingival sulcus. Normally, these structures provide the support and together with the antibacterial substances in saliva help to protect from tooth loss.
Periodontal disease begins when plaque forms on the tooth near the gingival sulcus.
Plaque forms on dogs teeth much like it forms on our own, and is a combination of food and bacteria. Once tartar begins to form on the teeth, it acts as a wedge to keep bacteria in the gingival sulcus. If this process is left unchecked, gingivitis often progresses to more advanced periodontal disease , including recession of the gums and eventually loosening of the tooth support structure. All of this can cause tooth loss, but perhaps more importantly to the dog's health is periodontal disease's potential to result in more life threatening infections . The mouth has a tremendous blood supply, and the bacteria that grow at the gingival sulcus can be picked up in the circulation, most frequently going to the heart, kidneys or other vital internal organs.