Virbac Animal Health - Passionate about animal health - Information for the veterinary professionLink to Virbac Vet home page

Periodontal Disease

Bad breath, pawing at the mouth, difficulty eating and chewing food, are but a few of the symptoms of poor oral health. Ignored, they can lead to gum inflammation and periodontal disease, which is caused by infection from plaque and tartar build-up on pets' teeth. If addressed promptly, the early stages of gingivitis can be treated and the condition reversed. However, if allowed to progress, irreversible periodontitis can occur along with chronic bacterial infection, which can enter the bloodstream and may damage the kidneys, liver and heart.

Periodontal disease is one of the most prevalent diseases seen by veterinarians. It is also one of the easiest to prevent.

Pet owners who partner with their veterinarians and C.E.T.® Home Dental Care can help to ensure the oral good health of their dog or cat. By following a veterinarian’s instructions and the C.E.T.® three-option chew-rinse-brush plan, plaque and tartar forming bacteria can be eliminated.

Signs and Symptoms

  • Persistent bad breath
  • Sensitivity around the mouth
  • Pawing at the mouth
  • Loss of appetite
  • Plaque (often not visible unless stained)
  • Bleeding, inflamed or receded gums
  • Tartar (creamy-brown, hard material)
  • Loose or missing teeth
  • Difficulty eating and chewing food

Four Stages of Periodontal Disease

    Canine Feline

Stage I Gingivitis - Margin of attached gingiva (gum) is inflamed and swollen. Plaque covering teeth. Treatment can reverse condition.

 Illustration of Gingivitis Photo of Canine Stage 1 Photo of Feline Stage 1

Stage II Early Periodontitis - Entire attached gum is inflamed and swollen. Mouth is painful and odor begins to be noticeable. Professional treatment and home dental care can prevent this from becoming irreversible.

 Illustration of Early Periodontitis Photo of Canine Stage 2 Photo of Feline Stage 2

Stage III Moderate Periodontitis - Cherry red and bleeding attached gum is being destroyed by infection and calculus (tartar). Sore mouth affects eating and behavior. Bad breath is present. Beginning of periodontal disease. May be irreversible.

 Illustration of Moderate Periodontitis Photo of Canine Stage 3 Photo of Feline Stage 3

Stage IV Advanced Periodontitis - Chronic bacterial infection is destroying the gum, tooth and bone. Bacteria may be spreading throughout the entire body via the bloodstream and may damage the kidneys, liver and heart.

 Illustration of Advanced Periodontitis Photo of Canine Stage 4 Photo of Feline Stage 4
Photos courtesy of Dr. Jan Bellows

Product information on this Web site is intended only for residents of the United States. Products available in other countries may have different product labeling.

Pet health information on this Web site is for informational purposes only. It should not replace discussions with a pet healthcare provider. Questions and/or decisions concerning pet healthcare should be made in consultation with a veterinarian.