Your pet is likely a victim of periodontal disease. Periodontal disease refers to the destruction of the supporting apparatus of the tooth, including the bone and ligament that hold the tooth in the socket. Periodontal disease is the most common reason for pets to lose teeth and is the most commonly diagnosed medical condition in mature dogs and cats. In fact most dogs and cats over the age of five suffer from periodontal disease. If your pet has one or two “loose teeth” extracted every time the teeth are cleaned, there are likely other teeth with periodontal problems that have been overlooked.
      This process takes place mainly under the gum line, hidden from your view. Periodontal disease is caused by bacterial infection, as well as the response of the patient to that infection. Treatment is aimed at eliminating the pockets that form under the gums, trapping debris and infectious material. Treatment may involve reduction of overgrown gums, surgical exposure of roots, and meticulous cleaning of all root surfaces so that healing can take place.
      We frequently find small lesions that are causing big problems. Just because a tooth is not loose does not mean that there is no problem or discomfort. Radiographs are frequently the only way we have to diagnose and treat periodontal disease. When properly cared for, your pet’s mouth can be more comfortable, and their teeth can last a lot longer.

Severe periodontal disease before cleaning.	After cleaning, showing exposure of roots and loss of bone.

Patient with what appears to be a small periodontal pocket. (arrow)	Radiograph reveals severe bone loss and abscessed tooth.

Patient with severely overgrown gums.	After gum reduction.
	Two weeks after treatment, showing healed tissues.