Whilst the initiation of gingivitis commences with plaque, the progression to periodontitis requires a number of factors including the individual’s subgingival microbiome, calculus deposits, breed, bite type, malocclusions, genetics, epigenetics, the individual’s immune response and overall general health, age, home dental care regime, chewing behaviour, composition and adequacy of saliva, muzzle hair, periodontal health and any existing pocket depths. Therefore, we need to treat the inflammation, as well as deal with the other factors, to ensure the health of the periodontal tissues.
