Periodontal Disease (Gingivitis/Periodontitis)
Detailed information about Periodontal Disease (Gingivitis/Periodontitis)
Periodontal Disease (Gingivitis/Periodontitis)
Species: Cat
Breeds Affected: All breeds (very common in cats over 4 years old)
Overview
Infection and inflammation of the gums and surrounding tissues caused by plaque bacteria. It typically begins as gingivitis and can progress to periodontitis with bone loss, leading to chronic pain and tooth loss.
Symptoms
- Bad breath (halitosis)
- red and swollen gums
- plaque/tartar accumulation
- receding gums
- loose teeth
- drooling (sometimes with blood)
- and reluctance to eat due to oral pain.
Treatments
Treatment involves a professional dental cleaning under anesthesia (scaling and polishing), extraction of severely diseased teeth, and possibly antibiotics or antiseptic rinses. Ongoing home dental care (brushing and dental diets) is crucial.
Medications
Antibiotics (eg, clindamycin or amoxicillin-clavulanate) during dental procedures; chlorhexidine oral rinses or gels; pain medications (eg, onsior or buprenorphine); in refractory cases, corticosteroids or cyclosporine; routine dental chews or water additives for prevention.
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