Tooth Resorption
Studies show the Periodontal disease affects more than 80% of dogs and cats over three years of age. Periodontal disease is caused by a combination of plaque and tarter build up. It results in progressive bone loss around the teeth. Bone loss can cause tooth loss, oronasal fistula (loss of the tissue separating the oral from the nasal cavity), and pathologic jaw fracture. Daily tooth brushing and annual dental cleanings are the best way to prevent periodontal disease. To find home dental care products that have been clinically proven to be effective, see the Veterinary Oral Health Council website (VOHC.org).
Dr. Startup and Dr. Burton provide a full range of periodontic services, including:
- Routine Dental Prophylaxis (teeth scaling and probing) with dental radiographs.
- Open and Closed Root Planing (subgingival cleaning and scaling)
- Guided Tissue Regeneration (a dental procedure that is performed to allow normal, healthy tissue to regenerate at a site of bone loss and periodontal disease)
- Bone Grafting (the replacement of bone sometimes caused by periodontal disease)
- Gingivectomy/Gingivoplasty (the removal and/or recontouring of excess gum tissue due to periodontal disease)
- Lateral Sliding Flap (grafts of gum tissue used to cover exposed roots)
- Apical Repositioning Flaps (mucogingival surgery to eliminate periodontal pockets)
- Crown Lengthening Procedures (removal of gum tissue and/or bone to expose more tooth area)