Dental health is essential for dogs to live a comfortable, pain-free life. Unfortunately, dogs can suffer from a variety of dental issues, such as gingivitis, periodontal disease, and tooth fractures.
Regular brushing and professional cleanings can help reduce the risk of dental problems, but it’s important to be aware of the signs of dental pain and to work with a veterinarian to ensure your dog has the best dental care possible.
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is a common disorder in dogs. It is an inflammation of the gums that can lead to more serious periodontal diseases. Symptoms include red, swollen, and bleeding gums, as well as bad breath.
Mild gingivitis can be improved with regular brushing and check-ups from a veterinarian. For moderate to severe cases, professional scaling and polishing may be needed to remove tartar buildup. Anesthesia may be required for professional tartar removal.
It is important to address gingivitis as early as possible to prevent more serious periodontal diseases. Prevention is key, so regular brushing and professional cleanings can help keep a dog’s mouth healthy.
Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease progresses to bone loss around the tooth and can make teeth loose. It is caused by bacteria in plaque and tartar buildup, which accumulates around and between the teeth.
Treatment for periodontal disease depends on its severity; it can include scaling and polishing teeth, deep root cleaning, bone graft placement, and tooth extraction. Working with a veterinarian is important to ensure a dog has a healthy mouth, as periodontal disease has been linked to kidney disease and systemic inflammation.
Regular cleanings and brushing can prevent plaque buildup and gingivitis, which is the first stage of periodontal disease. Chewing on hard objects should be avoided in order to prevent tooth fractures.
Early detection and treatment of dental issues can help prevent pain, infection, and tooth loss.
Tartar and Plaque Buildup
Plaque and tartar buildup can lead to gingivitis and, if left untreated, can progress to periodontal disease. Plaque is a combination of oral bacteria and proteins from saliva that adheres to the teeth, and it forms just minutes after brushing.
Tartar is mineralized plaque, and can only be removed professionally. Brushing a dog’s teeth is important to prevent plaque and tartar buildup. Anesthesia is usually required for professional tartar removal in pets.
Regular brushing and cleanings can help keep a dog’s mouth healthy and prevent painful dental issues.
Tooth Fractures
Chewing on hard objects can cause tooth fractures in dogs, which can be painful and lead to infection if left untreated. Tooth fractures are a type of endodontic disease that affects the pulp of the tooth. Fractures can range from minor hairline cracks to severe breaks that can cause the tooth to fracture into multiple pieces.
If left untreated, bacteria can enter the pulp and cause the tooth to die. Treatment for tooth fractures may involve tooth extraction or a root canal. Anesthesia is required for these procedures.
Regular brushing and dental check-ups can help prevent tooth fractures in dogs. Proper dental care is essential for keeping your dog’s teeth healthy and can help avoid painful complications.
Signs of Dental Pain
Signs of dental discomfort in a dog can include avoiding chewing, preferring softer foods, dropping food, or pawing at their mouth. This could be a sign that something is wrong with their teeth or gums. If your pup is displaying any of these behaviors, it’s important to visit the veterinarian for a thorough assessment.
An examination can help determine the cause of the pain and identify any underlying conditions that need to be addressed. Common causes of dental pain in dogs include gingivitis, periodontal disease, tartar and plaque buildup, and tooth fractures.
Early detection and treatment of these issues can prevent further pain and help keep your dog’s mouth healthy. Regular teeth brushing at home, as well as professional cleanings, can help reduce the risk of dental disease and ensure your pup’s ongoing comfort and well-being.
Working With a Veterinarian
Working with a veterinarian is essential to ensure a pet’s oral health is maintained. Regular check-ups and professional dental cleanings are important for preventing and treating dental issues. A veterinarian can provide an accurate diagnosis and determine the best course of action. They can also provide advice on how to care for a dog’s teeth at home, such as brushing, providing dental chews, and changing a dog’s diet.
During a professional cleaning, a veterinarian may also recommend professional dental products, such as dental sealants or topical oral rinses. Working with a veterinarian is the best way to ensure a pet’s dental health is maintained.
