Signs of Dental Disease in Dogs and Cats

The Scale of the Problem

Periodontal (gum) disease is the most prevalent disease in companion animals — more common than diabetes, kidney disease or skin allergies. By the age of 3, over 80% of dogs and 70% of cats show early signs of dental disease. Left untreated, oral infection can spread bacteria through the bloodstream to the heart, kidneys and liver, causing systemic illness.

How Dental Disease Progresses

• Stage 1 — Gingivitis: Plaque accumulates on tooth surfaces. Gums become red and inflamed. Fully reversible with professional cleaning and home care.
• Stage 2 — Early Periodontitis: Tartar (calculus) has mineralised. Early bone loss around tooth roots begins. Partially reversible with professional treatment.
• Stage 3 — Established Periodontitis: Significant bone loss. Pockets form between gum and tooth. Deep cleaning required. May not be fully reversible.
• Stage 4 — Advanced Periodontitis: Severe bone and tissue destruction. Tooth extraction often necessary to eliminate pain and infection.

Warning Signs to Watch For

• Bad breath (halitosis) — the most common early sign
• Yellow or brown tartar on teeth
• Red, swollen or bleeding gums
• Drooling more than usual
• Difficulty chewing, dropping food or chewing on one side
• Pawing at the mouth or face
• Loss of appetite or weight loss
• Loose or missing teeth
• Facial swelling (possible abscess)
• Behavioural changes — becoming withdrawn or irritable

Professional Dental Cleaning — What to Expect

Professional dental procedures require general anaesthesia to allow thorough examination and cleaning of all tooth surfaces, including below the gumline. Modern anaesthesia with continuous monitoring is very safe. The procedure typically includes supragingival and subgingival scaling, irrigation, polishing, and charting of all teeth. Extractions are performed only when necessary to eliminate pain and infection.

Home Dental Care

• Tooth brushing — Most effective home care. Use pet-safe toothpaste (never human toothpaste). Aim for daily; even 3x weekly makes a significant difference. Start slowly with finger and work up to a brush.
• Dental chews — Look for VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council) approved products.
• Water additives and dental gels — May help reduce plaque formation. Not a substitute for brushing.
• Dental diets — Specially formulated kibble with larger pieces and texture that mechanically reduces plaque.