At Barnes Veterinary Service in Lakewood, CO, we frequently diagnose and treat gum infections, which are a serious and common consequence of advanced periodontal disease in dogs and cats. These infections, often concealed beneath the gumline, cause chronic pain and can pose a threat to your pet’s overall systemic health if left unaddressed. Understanding the nature of these infections and the necessity of professional pet dental care is crucial for every responsible pet owner.
Recognizing The Silent Signs Of Infection
Unlike an injury on the skin, a gum infection often presents with very subtle signs that can be easily missed or mistaken for general aging, which is why diligent observation is key. Owners should look for extremely bad breath, persistent drooling, swelling below the eye, or reluctance to chew hard food or toys. By the time noticeable symptoms like bleeding gums appear, the infection is often quite advanced, underscoring the need for routine veterinary checks.
Diagnosing And Assessing The Disease
Once a gum infection is suspected, our veterinarian will recommend a comprehensive oral exam and dental radiographs, both of which must be performed under anesthesia for accurate diagnosis. Radiographs are essential because they reveal the extent of the damage to the tooth roots and the supporting jawbone, which is invisible above the gum line. This accurate, internal assessment is necessary to formulate a proper pet dental care treatment plan that addresses the entire pathology.
The Necessity Of Professional Treatment
Treating a serious gum infection invariably requires a professional anesthetic dental procedure to eliminate the harmful bacteria and damaged tissues effectively. Treatment usually involves deep scaling below the gumline to remove plaque and tartar, root planing, and often the extraction of severely diseased or infected teeth. Attempting to treat established gum infections without anesthesia and surgical intervention is ineffective and ultimately causes prolonged suffering for the pet.
Preventing Future Gum Infections
The best way to manage gum infections is to prevent them from developing in the first place through consistent, daily home care and regular professional cleanings. Daily tooth brushing remains the gold standard, as it physically removes the daily accumulation of plaque before it hardens into calculus. Regular veterinary check-ups allow our veterinarian to monitor your pet's oral health and recommend professional cleanings before the disease reaches a critical stage.
Schedule Your Pet Dental Care Evaluation
If you have any concern about your pet's breath or their ability to chew, it is essential to schedule an examination to rule out underlying gum infections or periodontal disease. Proactive pet dental care prevents pain and protects your pet’s vital organs from bacteria circulating in the bloodstream. Call Barnes Veterinary Service today to schedule an oral health assessment with a trusted veterinarian near you in Lakewood, CO.