As dog owners, we do everything we can to maintain the health of our furry family member, but sometimes it can be easy to forget the importance of their dental health. Dogs can have similar issues with their dental health as people do, and it’s important to know the signs of dental problems in dogs for prevention purposes. Knowing more about what’s happening in your canine’s mouth will help keep you more alert to any potential problems.
Signs of Dental Problems in Dogs
Like us, dogs can suffer from plaque buildup, gum disease, and even tooth decay. One sign to watch for is bad breath. I mean, no dog’s breath smells like roses, but if it starts to get particularly stinky, that could be a red flag.
Also, if you notice your dog suddenly loses interest in their favorite chew toy or starts favoring one side of their mouth when eating, that’s worth a vet visit. Bleeding gums or drooling more than usual? Yep, another cause for concern. You might even spot some yellow or brown discoloration on their teeth, which is plaque or tartar buildup.
And don’t forget behavior changes! If your usually playful pup seems a bit down or is pawing at their face, dental pain could be the culprit. So keep an eye out, and if you’re ever in doubt, a quick trip to the vet for a dental check-up is never a bad idea!
Gum Disease In Dogs
Gum disease is extremely common in dogs. Studies have shown that there is an extremely high percentage of dogs that unfortunately show signs of gum disease as early as three years old.
Some of the signs for gum disease include noticeably bad breath, brown and yellow buildup of tartar, and irritated gums. Make sure to examine your dog’s mouth regularly so that you can acknowledge any of these symptoms right away.
Root Canals For Dogs
Another overlooked doggy dental fact is that dogs can also need root canals. Many people assume that root canals are something done specifically for humans, but dogs can also need root canals because it is common for dogs to break their teeth. If your canine needs to have a root canal, you can expect it to cost about the same as it would for a person.
Since broken teeth are common in dogs, it’s important to monitor what your dog is chewing on. Hard objects like wood, rocks, hard treats, and hard toys can be potential dangers to your dog. Giving your dog soft treats and toys will greatly lessen the chance of your dog breaking a tooth.
Periodontal Disease In Dogs
Smaller dog breeds are at a higher risk of developing periodontal disease. Small dogs are more at risk because their teeth are too big for their mouths. Canine periodontitis symptoms include yellow or brown teeth, loose or missing teeth, red or swollen gums, smelly breath, and a loss of appetite or weight loss.
To prevent this, make sure to regularly brush your dog’s teeth, visit your vet for dental cleanings, give your dog toys and food that support dental health, and give your pet treats that are treated with enzymes.
Tooth Infection In Dogs
If your dogs 4th premolar is infected, you will notice swelling under the eye. This tooth is larger than the others and is also known as the carnassial tooth. Owners typically misunderstand the unique problem because of the unusual symptoms.
Just as your dental health is an important aspect of your overall health, so too is your dog’s. Regular check ups and consulting with your veterinarian on recommended toys, treats, and food will keep your furry friend healthy and happy.
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