Stonebriar Veterinary Centre • Frisco, TX | www.stonebriarvet.com > Dental Care > Gum Disease (gingivitis) and Extractions

Gum Disease (gingivitis) and Extractions

February 11, 2010 • Stonebriar Vets

Extractions are sometimes necessary to treat diseased teeth, resolve pain and infections in the mouth. These are only done after careful evaluation of the patient and radiographs of the teeth. Additional procedures, medications, and follow up care may be necessary when extractions are needed and will be determined on a case-by-case basis.

Once gum disease (gingivitis) has occurred a dental cleaning no longer becomes a preventative measure but is instead a treatment for a bacterial infection. The best time to have your pet’s teeth cleaned is before gums become red or inflamed. This will give your pet the best result and prevent gum and periodontal disease from occurring. If gum disease is present we are fighting an uphill battle to control this bacterial infection. If adequate home care cannot be instituted then it may take repeated cleanings in succession to stop the progression of this disease or teeth will eventually be lost.