Dog with gum disease causing bad breath and tooth problems

Abstract

Periodontal disease is the most common condition affecting the oral cavity of dogs, characterized by gingivitis and periodontitis, caused by the presence of aerobic bacteria that accumulate on the surface of tooth in form of biofilm, subsequently favoring the colonization and growth of anaerobic bacteria with pathogenic potential. In gingivitis, inflammation of gums occurs, and in periodontitis, loss of epithelial adhesion, progressive bone loss and tooth mobility occur. Numerous factors are associated with periodontal disease, such as race, age, dental arch occlusion disorders, retention of deciduous teeth and dental crowding. The most common clinical signs of periodontal disease are halitosis and gum inflammation. The diagnosis is made through direct visual examination, which can identify the presence of dental calculus deposition and gingival inflammation, and the use of imaging tests such as radiography and computed tomography is essential. Surgical treatment consists of complete removal of dental calculus, removal of unstable teeth and polishing of teeth. In this study, a report of periodontal disease was carried out in a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel dog, which presented a large amount of supragingival dental calculus on all teeth. The diagnosis was made through clinical signs, physical examination and computed tomography with 3D imaging. The treatment was carried out by extraction of mobile teeth, removal of dental calculus and polishing of the teeth.