Periodontitis in dogs and cats: what it is and why it matters

Abstract

Background: Periodontal disease is very likely the most common, but significantly underdiagnosed disease found in companion animals. Untreated periodontitis is not only locally painful, but has detrimental consequences for patient health on a systemic level. As a detailed examination and imaging under general anaesthetic are required to confirm a diagnosis of periodontal disease, the exact prevalence remains unclear, but is thought to be high. However, the frequency at which it is identified in primary-care practices is low. This discrepancy highlights not only the limitation of relying solely on conscious oral assessments, but also the need for a greater awareness and understanding of the importance of periodontal pathology in our companion animals.

Aim of the article: In this article we will strive to increase our understanding of periodontal disease and its relevance to patient wellbeing. The unique anatomy of the periodontium, what changes occur as periodontitis develops, what factors may influence susceptibility to disease between individual patients, and what the local and systemic consequences of untreated periodontitis are according to the latest insights will all be reviewed.