Disease overview

Periodontal disease (PD) is a group of inflammatory disorders affecting the tissues surrounding the teeth. Periodontal disease is initiated by the buildup of plaque on the surface of the teeth, resulting in inflammation of the gingiva or "gingivitis". Without an effective oral healthcare regimen, inflammation can begin to destroy the structures that support the tooth which leads to periodontitis. Periodontal disease affects up to 80 percent of the adult feline population.

Signs and symptoms

Most cats will show signs of gingivitis that may lead up to periodontal disease. They may also be unwilling or reluctant or turn their head to the side when chewing, they may also drool or develop bad breath. Since periodontal disease can destroy the structures that support the tooth, teeth may move or in extreme cases fall out. Other signs of periodontal disease include recession of the gingiva or tooth root surface exposure.

How is it diagnosed?

Veterinarians will probe the gums of cats that may have periodontal disease as well as do X-rays of the head and jaw.

How is it treated?

Removing plaque and mineral buildup can help treat periodontal disease. In severe cases, teeth may need to be extracted.

Citations

https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center/health-information/feline-health-topics/feline-dental-disease

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25527493/