Dental Infection and How it

Affects Your Pet

More than eight out of ten dogs over 4 years old suffer from periodontal disease, a condition where bacteria attacks the soft gum tissue.

As plaque is allowed to build up on the teeth, bacteria multiples on the teeth and gums.  The gums then become tender, red and swollen.  Eventually, the gums pull away from the teeth, creating pockets that trap more bacteria.  The bacteria then begins to attack the roots of the teeth and the jaw.

Once gums reach this state of deterioration, they bleed slightly every time the animal eats or chews.  The bleeding allows bacteria into the animal's main bloodstream.  Once the bacteria enters the blood stream, major organs can be affected and infections start in those organs.  Lungs, heart, kidneys, liver and sometimes, the nervous system are the organs that have the highest blood flow.  In the nervous system, occasionally bacteria will cross the blood-brain barrier and may cause meningitis.  In the kidneys, the bacteria will cause interstitial nephritis and gomerulonephrtis.  With the lungs, there can be pulmonary fibrosis, bronchitis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and with the heart can produce Endocarditis, mitral regurgitation, and myocardial Degeneration.

When the gums and teeth are cleaned, considerable bleeding of the gums is present, therefore, your veterinarian often prescribes an antibiotic preceding the procedure.  This treats any dental infections that may be present and offers protection for the other organs.

Don't forget those dental cleanings, and keep your pet healthy!