What Causes Gum Disease In Horses?

Periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in horses, especially in older horses, and it is primarily caused by food debris impacted between cheek teeth. For the most part, information about how to diagnose, treat and help horses heal with periodontal disease is available to equine practitioners.

What is the root cause of gum disease?

Overview. Periodontal (gum) disease is an infection of the tissues that hold your teeth in place. It’s typically caused by poor brushing and flossing habits that allow plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—to build up on the teeth and harden.

What causes gingivitis in horses?

Horses get gum disease when they get feed trapped in between their cheek teeth, which should be tightly packed together. Here is an example of an older horse with a diastema (space with feed packing) in between his first two cheek teeth. Some horses get these spaces in between their teeth because of POOR ANATOMY.

How do vets treat gum disease?

Stage 1: Gingivitis can be treated with a professional dental cleaning and application of fluoride to prevent plaque accumulation. Stages 2 & 3: The teeth will need a deep scaling or scraping, both above and below the gumline, to remove plaque and tartar buildup.

What signs indicate a horse was having a dental problem?

The classic signs of dental disease in horses include difficulty or slowness in feeding and a reluctance to drink cold water. While chewing, the horse may stop for a few moments and then start again. Sometimes, the horse will hold its head to one side as if it were in pain.

What food causes gum disease?

When you drink and eat starchy or sugary foods, you’re not only feeding yourself. You’re also feeding the germs (bacteria) that can cause tooth decay and gum disease in your mouth. Plaque is a thin, invisible, sticky film of bacteria and other materials.

Is gum disease curable?

Although it’s preventable, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates at least 50% of Americans have the infection. It’s also the leading cause of tooth loss. Don’t worry, if you act quickly, gum disease can be cured without leaving a lasting mark on your smile.

What is the fastest way to cure gingivitis?

How to Cure Gingivitis

1. Brush Your Teeth Twice a Day. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently brush around each tooth.
2. Floss Your Teeth Once a Day. Plaque loves to hide in between teeth where toothbrush bristles can’t reach.
3. Use a Fluoride Mouth Rinse.
4. Don’t Skip Dental Appointments.
5. Avoid Sugary Foods and Beverages.

How do you make gingivitis go away?

Gingivitis usually clears up after a thorough professional cleaning — as long as you continue good oral hygiene at home. Your dentist will help you plan an effective at-home program and a schedule of regular professional checkups and cleaning.

What is the best treatment for gingivitis?

What is the best treatment for gingivitis? The most universal treatment for gingivitis is correct daily oral hygiene: brushing the teeth for two minutes twice a day and flossing the teeth once per day. Late-stage gingivitis, however, can only be treated by a dentist removing plaque from below the gum line.

Can gum disease repair itself?

The simple answer is, no. If your gums are damaged by, for example periodontitis, the most severe form of gum disease, it’s not possible for receding gums to grow back. However, even though receding gums can’t be reversed there are treatments that can help to stop the problem from getting worse.

Can gum disease damage be reversed?

Advanced Gum Disease (Periodontitis) Can’t Be Reversed
Once gum disease progresses past gingivitis, the infection is permanent. Irreversible damage will be done to your teeth and gums, and it will never be possible to completely eliminate the infection.

How long does it take to cure gum disease?

In most cases, gingivitis usually clears up within 10 to 14 days. If your gingivitis is more serious, it could take longer to treat. Take charge of your dental health to prevent it from recurring.

What food kills mouth bacteria?

High in phosphate and calcium, cheese (and milk) helps neutralize the acid in the mouth, killing bacteria and preserving tooth enamel. This prevents cavities and gum disease. Chewing celery (or apples or carrots) produces saliva, neutralizing the bacteria Streptococcus mutans that causes cavities.

What foods repair gums?

7 Foods That Support Gum Health

• Fresh Fruits and Vegetables. Fresh fruits and vegetables that are crunchy and full of fiber can help keep teeth clean and healthy, and lower the risk of plaque build up.
• Milk, Yogurt, Dairy.
• Water.
• Sugar Free Gum.
• Tea.
• Nuts.
• Whole Grains.

What nutrient keeps gums healthy?

Vitamin C
Vitamin C. Vitamin C strengthens your gums and the soft tissue in your mouth. It can protect against gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease, and can prevent your teeth from loosening.

What happens if gum disease is left untreated?

Periodontitis (also called periodontal disease) is gum disease. This infection damages the soft tissue around your teeth and wears away the bone supporting them. If left untreated, the disease eventually ruins the bone, loosening the teeth and causing them to fall out.

What does the start of gum disease look like?

Signs and symptoms of gingivitis include: Swollen or puffy gums. Dusky red or dark red gums. Gums that bleed easily when you brush or floss.

Is gum disease life long?

Gum disease can become a lifelong concern if it develops, but you can still lessen and control its effects with regular dental health care and maintenance.

Does baking soda help gingivitis?

Prevents gum disease: Brushing with baking soda discourages the formation of plaque. This substance on your teeth can build up if not cleaned properly and cause gingivitis. Using baking soda or a toothpaste that contains baking soda can save you from having swollen, sore, and bleeding gums.

Can gingivitis be undone?

The earliest stage, known as gingivitis, only causes mild inflammation, and it can be reversed with good oral hygiene and teeth cleanings.