Periodontal disease is likely in your pet if at least three years old and has not received professional dental care. Periodontal disease affects more than 90% of adult dogs in some way. Untreated oral health problems can cause discomfort, tooth loss, infections, and even organ damage, particularly to the heart and kidneys. It can even result in premature mortality in some cases. Professional dental care helps keep your canine companion’s teeth and gums in good shape.
What are the signs of canine dental problems?
While it is advised that you bring your dog in for dental care once a year, here are several signs that he should see a pet dentist sooner for you to get more info.
Unusual Drooling
Dogs drool as they chew on food or toys, but a dog suffering from tooth pain may drool more frequently. When there is an injury or pain in the mouth, the salivary glands work overtime.
Sometimes blood might be seen in the saliva. If this is the case, you should take your dog to a dog and cat dentistry specialist right away since he could be in a more serious condition.
Canine Bad Breath
Healthy dogs do not have terrible breath in general. If your dog’s breath has started to smell bad, he may have a problem with his mouth. Bad dog breath could suggest that your dog has dental decay or an infection, which could be causing her oral pain.
Absence of Appetite
When a dog has dental pain, he may not eat as much as usual since chewing is difficult. You may notice him eating and then quickly stop. He may also protest or spit out his food while eating. If your dog’s appetite suddenly changes, even if it isn’t due to dental pain, take it to the veterinarian and if you still don’t have a vet from your area, simply look up “animal hospital near me”
Sneezing and Nasal Discharge
If gum disease is not addressed, the bone between the nasal and oral cavities may become more porous. This happens in advanced cases of gum disease affecting the upper canine teeth, and sneeze and nasal discharge are two symptoms.
Your Dog Has Been Chewing Exclusively on One Side of His Mouth
When a dog has dental pain on one side of his mouth, he may only chew on the opposing side. If food or a toy in his mouth accidentally hits the painful side, he may drop it immediately.
Sudden Shyness
If your dog typically enjoys being petted but suddenly turns his head away from your palm, he may be suffering from dental discomfort. He does not want you to touch his head for fear of exacerbating his pain.
Observable Changes in Your Dog’s Mouth
Examining your dog’s mouth regularly will help you discover whether something is amiss with his mouth. During an oral examination, you may notice that one side of his mouth is swollen or that he has inflamed or bleeding gums, fractured or missing teeth, or sores on his gums.
Finally,
You cannot prevent your dog from inadvertently shattering a tooth, but you may avoid tooth pain from other causes by practicing basic oral care. Tooth pain can be incapacitating for a dog and may suggest that he is suffering from a serious ailment. If you notice any of the above-mentioned indications or symptoms in your dog, take him to the veterinarian right away.
