Periodontal disease in pets is characterized by pain, bacteria, and infection.
Grade 1 – RED GUMS: Low grade pain…like a constant headache. This is gingivitis. Red gum line, even though teeth appear clean. Bad breath.
Grade 2 – RED AND SWOLLEN GUMS: Pain is chronic. Inflammation and swelling of the gums. Bacteria enters the blood stream and infects heart, liver and kidneys. Plaque and tartar present.
Grade 3 – PUS UNDER GUMS. GUM LOSS & INFLAMED PERIODONTAL TISSUE. Pain is constant. Bone loss with inflammation of periodontal tissue, loss of gum attachment. Plaque and tartar present.
Grade 4 – BONE LOSS WITH EXPOSED ROOTS AND MOBILE TEETH: Pain is severe. Untreated, gingivitis may progress to infect the surrounding tissue with tooth loss, mobile teeth and bone loss.