How to Identify Dog Dental Health Problems
February marks Pet Dental Health Awareness Month, prompting us to consult the veterinary professionals for answers to key questions about maintaining canine oral hygiene. Continue reading to discover how to recognize dental problems in your dog.
"The most common symptoms of a dental problem are bad breath, calculus buildup on the teeth, and gingivitis (red, inflamed or infected gums)."
Signs & Symptoms
WHAT ARE THE MOST COMMON SYMPTOMS OF DENTAL DISEASE IN DOGS?
The most frequent indicators are typically bad breath, tartar accumulation on the teeth, and gingivitis (characterized by red, swollen, or infected gums). However, dental issues can manifest differently based on the dog and the specific condition. Be alert for any of these signs, or note anything else that appears unusual.
WHAT OTHER SIGNS SHOULD I LOOK FOR IN MY DOG TO IDENTIFY A PROBLEM?
Potential symptoms include: halitosis (persistent bad breath); discolored teeth or visible tartar; red, inflamed, or bleeding gums; increased drooling; changes in appetite or eating patterns; chewing exclusively on one side of the mouth; picking up and dropping food; pawing at the mouth; evident mouth pain; or swelling or discharge around the muzzle. Broken teeth also warrant professional assessment.
MY DOG'S BREATH SMELLS PRETTY BAD, IS THIS BECAUSE OF A DENTAL PROBLEM?
That is a definite possibility and a very common one. However, unpleasant breath can stem from various factors, including diet, digestive issues, foreign objects in the mouth, or even serious health conditions like kidney failure or poisoning. Scheduling a veterinary consultation is the best course of action. If your pet is otherwise healthy, this is usually not an emergency but should be arranged promptly. If your pet shows signs of illness, pain, weight loss, difficulty eating, or other concerning symptoms (or if you suspect ingestion of something toxic), they may need urgent or emergency care.
When is it Time to Book a Dental Visit?
HOW FREQUENTLY SHOULD I GET MY DOG'S TEETH CHECKED BY MY VET?
This depends on breed and individual factors, which influence how rapidly dental disease progresses in each dog. Your veterinarian will provide personalized recommendations. Attending checkups at the advised interval (generally every 6-12 months, or more frequently for senior dogs or those with health issues) is an excellent proactive measure.
I HAVE A RESCUE DOG AND I DON'T KNOW THEIR DENTAL HISTORY. HOW DO I KNOW IF THEY NEED DENTAL CARE?
Begin with a comprehensive veterinary examination. This is beneficial for your dog's overall health, not just their dental care. Without knowledge of your rescue dog's history, there may be other underlying health conditions that need attention. Your vet can advise on necessary steps—or possibly provide reassurance with a clean bill of health.
IS IT EVER TOO LATE TO START CLEANING YOUR DOG'S TEETH?
Dental disease becomes more prevalent in older pets. Pets with advanced dental disease or periodontal disease (a serious condition affecting the structures supporting the teeth) may experience pain during brushing. Always seek your veterinarian's approval before starting. A professional dental cleaning might be required initially, but afterward, it is often perfectly suitable to begin this new, healthy routine.
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