Dogs and cats' breath should not have a disagreeable odor. When periodontal disease advances, inability to chew hard food as well as excessive drooling with or without blood may occur. Bone loss from periodontal disease occurs below the gumline. In order to evaluate the stage of disease as well as the best treatment, your pet must be examined under general anesthesia. In addition to a visual examination, x-rays and instruments to measure bone loss are used.
Treatment depends on the severity of disease.
Grade one and two gingivitis can be treated by teeth cleaning, polishing, and the application of fluoride to help prevent plaque accumulation. Grade three disease will require deep scaling. Once grade four disease occurs, surgery is necessary to treat the affected teeth. Surgical removal of excessive gum tissue in a Boxer Medication may be dispensed to use after the teeth cleaning to treat and help prevent periodontal disease progression. Daily tooth brushing is the key to help prevent plaque build up.