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.
Periodontal disease is considered one of the most important sources of more serious infections.
Athletic greyhounds with exceptional circulation are prime targets for bacteria that are picked up in the blood vessels in the mouth and brought through the veins to the heart. Infection of the structures in the heart is known as bacterial endocarditis, and is often caused by infection in the mouth. Although treatable, once the infection has occurred, it often leaves behind permanent damage to the valves or heart muscle. Additionally, the bacteria that live in the mouth can end up in the kidneys, resulting in a potentially life threatening infection called pyelonephritis. Regardless of where in the body the bacteria spread, the fact that a constant source of infection is present makes periodontal disease one of the most potentially dangerous conditions that we commonly see as veterinarians.