Can dogs and cats get gingivitis?

4 years ago

A cat is having its lips pulled open showing signs of gingivitis

There are two stages of gum disease – gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis presents as a thin red line of inflammation where the gums meet the tooth. Gingivitis is the only reversible form of dental disease. A professional cleaning under anesthesia will cause the inflammation to subside. If the gingivitis is left unchecked, periodontitis can develop which affects the support structures of the tooth – the gums and the bone socket that hold the tooth root and the bacteria present in gum disease can cause irreversible injury to these structures. A professional cleaning and daily home care on the part of the pet owner can stop or slow the progression of the loss of these support structures.