For many pet owners, discussing oral health issues with their veterinarian can be overwhelming. Much of the language may make little to no sense to the average pet owner, especially when some terms are used interchangeably. It’s understandable that some pet owners can be confused and worried.

Two of the most common words that veterinarians use to discuss pet oral health are gingivitis and periodontitis or periodontal disease. Some pet owners may think that these two health issues are totally unrelated while others may think that they are the same thing. Understanding the differences and the relationship between the two can help pet owners feel more confident in how to provide the best oral health care for their pet.

Gingivitis begins as a reaction to plaque that accumulates on the outside surface of the tooth. Plaque, composed of oral bacteria and food particles, is created daily in humans and pets.   The gum tissue or gingiva reacts to the plaque bacteria by becoming red and swollen—that condition is called gingivitis.  It’s important to reduce plaque every day through daily brushing, wiping the outside surfaces of the teeth or giving your pet a dental treat. If the plaque is not removed it hardens into concrete-like tartar and further encourages the bacteria to migrate below the gum line.  The lack of exposure to air and the seclusion in the gum line makes it easier for the bacteria to destroy part or all of the periodontal ligament that holds the tooth in the jaw.  This loss of tooth support is called periodontal disease or periodontitis.  Once periodontitis develops, bacteria and other pathogens move more easily into the bloodstream and may affect the overall health of the pet.

Gingivitis is reversible and curable with veterinary dental care and daily at-home oral care, so it is important to attend to gingivitis early on. Gingivitis can occur without periodontitis, however there’s no periodontitis without gingivitis. And although periodontal disease is not reversible or curable, its progression can be controlled with care from a veterinarian.

An important part of being a responsible pet owner is caring for your pet’s oral health. Preventing gingivitis so that periodontitis never has the opportunity to develop is one of the most important ways to have a positive impact on your pet’s overall health. Talk to your veterinarian about scheduling an ORAL ATP^® appointment to create an oral care plan. By developing and following an oral care plan recommended by the veterinarian, pet owners can help prevent oral disease and ensure that their pet’s smile remains healthy.

To hear more about how to keep your pet’s breath smelling sweet, check out our tips.