The silent threat – 7 early indicators of pet dental diseases you shouldn’t miss
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Pet dental problems are common among cats and dogs, and ignoring them can lead to serious health issues beyond just their mouths. Recognizing early signs of potential teeth or gum issues can help you schedule timely veterinarian appointments and prevent these problems from becoming severe. Keep reading to learn how to spot signs of dental diseases in pets.
Presence of Bad Breath in Pets
- Bad breath in pets is often caused by a build-up of bacteria, similar to humans, and can indicate poor dental health, among other potential issues. To prevent bad breath and monitor your pet’s oral health, start by regularly inspecting their mouths for plaque build-up. Once your pet is comfortable with mouth inspections, you can introduce a teeth-brushing routine.
Build-up of Tartar
- Tartar build-up begins as a yellowish discoloration of the teeth near the gums due to plaque accumulation. Over time, this plaque can darken, leading to reddening of the gums around the base of the teeth.
If left untreated, tartar build-up can progress into dental disease. Fortunately, you can prevent tartar accumulation by implementing a regular teeth-brushing routine for your pet.
Red or Inflamed Gums
- Red or inflamed gums in pets can signal various dental issues stemming from inadequate oral hygiene. One of the most prevalent is gingivitis, which results from substantial plaque and tartar accumulation.
Additionally, red gums may indicate an infection, potentially leading to an abscess affecting the tooth’s root. Abscesses are intensely painful and require immediate antibiotic treatment to alleviate discomfort and prevent further complications.
Facial Swelling in Pets
- Facial swelling around the mouth area in pets may result from various causes, including mouth infections or deep-seated abscesses within the gums or jaw. Abscess-related swelling often accompanies pain and additional symptoms like inflamed gums.
If your pet has facial swelling, especially if it appears painful or is accompanied by other concerning signs, prompt veterinary attention is crucial to effectively address the underlying issue.
Eating From One Side of the Mouth
- If you observe your pet eating with one side of their mouth during meals, it may indicate discomfort. Additionally, you might notice them dropping food as they attempt to avoid using a specific area of their mouth for biting or chewing. If this behavior is new and persistent, it could indicate an underlying dental issue causing pain.
Preference for Soft Foods and Reduced Appetite
- If your pet shows a reluctance to eat hard foods like biscuits and instead prefers softer options, it might indicate discomfort in their teeth or mouth. While a decreased appetite can signal various health concerns, constant changes in eating habits could point to toothache or other dental issues.
Monitor your pet closely for any other signs of illness, and consult a vet if their eating habits don’t improve within a few days.
Constant Pawing at the Mouth
Frequent pawing at the mouth in dogs often indicates discomfort in the teeth, gums, lips, or tongue. While various factors like toothache, cuts, or insect stings could trigger this behavior, persistent pawing requires veterinary attention. If the behavior continues for more than a day or appears severe, prompt veterinary care is necessary to identify and address the underlying cause.
Maintaining your pet’s dental health is crucial for their overall well-being and quality of life. Regular dental checkups play an essential role in preventing and addressing dental issues before they escalate into more serious problems. Schedule regular dental checkups with your veterinarian to keep your pet’s oral health in optimal condition.
Yearly dental appointments are ideal for keeping dental issues at bay. At Autumn Trails and Veterinary Center, we perform a range of dental services, from cleanings to dental extraction, to help keep your pet’s mouth looking and feeling great. We are located in Charlottesville, VA. Appointments are conveniently available; call us at (434) 971-9800.