Dental Health For Pets—What Is Gingivitis, Tartar And Calculus?

One crucial aspect of pet care that often gets overlooked is dental health. Just like humans, pets can suffer from dental issues that can lead to significant discomfort and health problems. Gingivitis, tartar and calculus are three common dental conditions that can affect your pet's oral health. Recognising and addressing these issues early can make a significant difference in your pet’s quality of life. 

What Is Gingivitis?

Gingivitis is an inflammatory condition affecting the gums, and it's one of the earliest signs of periodontal disease in pets. This condition arises when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, accumulates on the teeth and gums, leading to irritation and inflammation. Gingivitis is a reversible condition if caught early and treated properly, but if neglected, it can progress to more severe dental diseases.

What causes gingivitis?

Several factors contribute to the development of gingivitis in pets. The primary cause is bacterial infection due to plaque buildup. Plaque forms when food particles and bacteria mix, creating a film that adheres to the teeth. If not removed through regular brushing, this plaque hardens into tartar, leading to gum inflammation. Poor dental hygiene is another significant factor. Without routine dental care, plaque and tartar can accumulate, making gingivitis more likely. Additionally, underlying health conditions such as diabetes or autoimmune diseases can exacerbate the likelihood of developing gingivitis, as these conditions can affect the immune system and the body's ability to fight off infections.

What does gingivitis look like?

Recognising the symptoms of gingivitis in your pet is crucial for early intervention. Common signs include:

• red or swollen gums, which may appear inflamed or bleed when touched.

• Bad breath is another telltale sign, often resulting from bacterial growth in the mouth.

• In more severe cases, you might notice bleeding gums, especially after your pet eats or chews on toys. 

These symptoms indicate that your pet is experiencing discomfort and needs dental care.

If left untreated, gingivitis can lead to more serious consequences. The inflammation can advance to periodontitis, a severe gum disease that can cause tooth loss and damage to the supporting structures of the teeth, including the jawbone. Additionally, the bacteria from severe gum infections can enter the bloodstream, potentially affecting other organs such as the heart, liver and kidneys.

What Is Tartar?

Tartar, also known as dental calculus, is a hardened deposit that forms on the teeth and gum line. It develops when plaque, a soft and sticky film of bacteria, is not adequately removed from the teeth through regular brushing and dental care. Over time, the minerals present in saliva combine with the plaque, causing it to harden and form tartar. This process is known as mineralisation.

What does tartar look like?

The formation of tartar begins with plaque buildup. Plaque forms when food particles mix with bacteria in the mouth, creating a thin, sticky layer that adheres to the teeth. If this plaque is not removed through proper dental hygiene practices, it starts to harden. Within a few days, the minerals in saliva cause the plaque to calcify, turning it into tartar. Unlike plaque, which is soft and can be easily removed, tartar is hard and firmly attached to the teeth, making it difficult to remove without professional dental cleaning by a veterinarian.

What is the difference between plaque and tartar?

Plaque is a soft, colourless film that constantly forms on the teeth and gums. It can be removed through regular brushing and dental chews. Tartar, however, is a hardened, yellow or brown deposit that adheres strongly to the teeth and requires professional cleaning by a vet for it to be removed. While plaque can lead to tartar formation, tartar can lead to more severe dental problems if not addressed.

What are the risks if my pet has tartar on their teeth?

The presence of tartar on your pet’s teeth poses several risks. One of the primary risks is gum disease. Tartar irritates the gums, causing inflammation and leading to gingivitis. If left untreated, this can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease that can result in tooth loss and damage to the jawbone. Additionally, tartar can cause tooth decay. The bacteria in tartar produce acids that erode the enamel, leading to cavities and tooth decay. This can cause pain, infection and further dental issues for your pet.

How do I prevent tartar build up on my pet’s teeth?

Addressing tartar buildup is essential for maintaining your pet’s oral and overall health. Regular veterinary check-ups, professional cleanings and consistent at-home dental care can help prevent tartar formation and reduce the risk of associated dental diseases.

Calculus

The formation of dental calculus starts with the accumulation of plaque. When plaque is not effectively removed, it provides a breeding ground for bacteria, which can lead to gum inflammation and other dental issues. 

Removing dental calculus without professional intervention is extremely difficult. Unlike plaque, which is soft and can be brushed away, calculus is hard and firmly attached to the teeth. Specialised dental tools and veterinary expertise are required to effectively remove it. Our vets use ultrasonic scalers and other instruments to carefully remove the calculus from the teeth and below the gumline, where it can cause the most harm.

Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are essential for preventing the buildup of dental calculus and maintaining your pet’s oral health. Additionally, maintaining a consistent at-home dental care routine, including brushing your pet’s teeth and using dental chews or toys, can help minimise plaque buildup and reduce the risk of tartar formation. By staying proactive about your pet’s dental health, you can help ensure their overall well-being and longevity.