Dental Grades

Dental Grades

Teeth are graded by a number system. When your pet comes into the hospital for an examination, the
health of the teeth and gums are assessed and graded. This is what the number grading means.

Grade Zero:

• The tooth and gums around it appear normal, with no inflammation or possible infection
  evident. A zero is definitely something to celebrate. Either keep up the dental care at home or start your
  dental care plan for your pet so that you can keep things healthy and looking good!
  

Grade One: Gingivitis

• Will present with normal bacterial flora, sound gums and minimal plaque buildup. At this stage we
  recommend a scale and polish, home care and a dental diet to prevent the progression to Grade 2. If left
  unaddressed, gingivitis progresses into periodontitis, which is a more serious inflammation and infection.
  

Grade Two: Early Periodontitis

• Inflammation is apparent on the gum from the bacterial build up (red means pain). This is the beginning
  stage of dental disease. While the teeth still appear somewhat healthy, the overall health of the mouth is
  starting to decline. A dental scale and polish is required.
  From Grade 2 onward, dental disease can contribute to both kidney and heart function.
  

Grade Three: Moderate Periodontitis

• Unhealthy oral cavity with unfavorable bacteria, possible gum and inner lip ulceration, receding gums,
  root exposure, and plaque build-up. Things are getting pretty serious at this stage, with tooth loss and
  dangerous infection likely.
  

Grade Four: Advanced Periodontitis

• Advanced periodontitis has taken hold. The mouth is likely full of pus, bacteria and disease. The teeth
  are falling out and the gums are severely inflamed and infected. The roots are infected and exposed.
  This is of course very painful and immediate action is required.

All dental Grades require an anesthetic to be able to perform a prophylaxis and thorough examination of
the mouth.