PERIODONTAL DISEASE IS A MAJOR HEALTH RISK FOR YOUR PET.

Cordova Animal Medical Center cares about your pet's dental health.   Periodontal disease is prevalent in 85% of all dogs and cats over the age of four.  This is a condition in which bacteria attack the gingival tissue and produce extensive plaque and tartar.  The bacteria eventually enter the blood stream through the gum tissue and travel throughout the body.  This can affect all major organs including the heart, lungs, liver, and kidneys. 

 

• It is the most common disease in small animal practice.

• It is PAINFUL. Most frequently, pets with oral pain "suffer in silence".

• It is PREVENTABLE (the term for prevention is "prophylaxis").

• Treatment is a catch-up game to get problems under control when there may already be permanent damage to the oral cavity or internal organs.
  
                                                            
  It is too late to save this tooth                                                                                      Treating periodontal pockets with doxirobe

Preventative Vaccine:

Remarkably, after years of research along with laboratory and field trials, Pfizer Animal Health has created the first and only vaccine to aid in the prevention of canine periodontitis!  By vaccinating against the three main types of anaerobic bacteria that cause periodontal disease, we can help prevent the pain and other negative health implications associated with chronic dental infection and tooth loss

It's important to remember that this vaccine is not a replacement for routine home care (i.e. tooth brushing, OraZn, OraVet etc) or regular prophylactic cleanings by your veterinary healthcare team.  The importance of this routine preventative care cannot be overstated.  Think of the canine porphyromonas vaccine as part of a complete dental care program for your dog.

• How often will my dog be vaccinated?
  Your dog will initially receive two doses of the Porphyromonas vaccine, given three weeks apart.  It is currently recommended to booster this annually thereafter.

• When is it safe to vaccinate my dog?
  This vaccine can help dogs of all ages.  Safety was demonstrated in dogs 7 weeks of age and older.  Most puppies will be vaccinated toward the end of their vaccination series.  However, since each dog is an individual with a unique medical history, your veterinarian's approval is required before having it administered.

• What if my dog already has periodontal disease?
  Periodontal disease can progress to four different stages.  There can even be different stages of involvement in different teeth within the same dog's mouth.  Appropriate periodontal therapy (i.e. dental treatment under anesthesia)  should be administered to restore health to the teeth; however, all teeth can potentially benefit from the Porphyromonas vaccine.

• If my dog receives the vaccine, are cleaning and brushing still necessary?
  The Porphyromonas vaccine should be used as part of a total dental care package that includes at-home care and professional cleanings.  Even with the use of the Porphyromonas vaccine, tartar and plaque may still develop.

• What are the possible side effects of the Porphyromonas vaccine?
  As with any vaccine, the potential for side effects after vaccination exists.  If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian.