A few different things can cause oral pain in dogs, including tooth decay, gingivitis, and mouth injuries. If your dogs are experiencing any of these problems, they will likely need an emergency vet.
Common Causes of Oral Pains in Dogs
Here are the top most common causes of oral pains in dogs:
- Tooth Decay. One of the most common causes of oral pain in dogs is tooth decay. This can happen when plaque builds up on the teeth and starts to eat away at the enamel. Infections and other serious health problems can occur due to untreated gingivitis.
- Gingivitis. Another common cause of oral pain in dogs is gingivitis. It is an inflammation of the gums that can be caused by plaque buildup. Untreated gingivitis can lead to periodontal disease.
- Mouth Injuries. Mouth injuries are another possible cause of oral pain in dogs. These can include cuts and scrapes to more serious injuries like fractured teeth. If your dog has any type of mouth injury, it’s important to take them to a veterinarian as soon as possible for treatment.
Signs to Look for in a Dog with Oral Pain
There are a few different signs that you can look for if you think your dog is dealing with oral pain:
1. Excessive Drooling
Among the most common signs of oral pain in dogs is excessive drooling. If your dog is drooling more than usual, it could be a sign that something is wrong.
2. Pawing at the Mouth
Another common sign of oral pain is pawing at the mouth or face. If your pet is constantly trying to scratch or rub their face, they may be in pain.
3. Loss of Appetite
If your dog isn’t interested in eating, it can be an indication that they’re dealing with oral pain. Dogs who are in pain often lose their appetite and may even stop drinking water.
4. Bad Breath
Bad breath is another common sign of oral pain in dogs. If your dog’s breath smells worse than usual, it could be a sign of an underlying dental problem.
5. Changes in Behavior
If your dog is acting differently, it could signify that they’re in pain. Dogs who are in pain may become more withdrawn and less active. They may also start to whine or cry more than usual.
What to Expect at the Vet
If you bring your dog to the vet for oral pain, the first thing they will do is perform a physical examination. This will help figure out other possible causes of the pain. They may also take X-rays or perform additional tests to get a better look at the inside of your dog’s mouth.
If it’s an emergency, the vet will likely start treatment right away, and you can find more information here.
Treatment for Oral Pain in Dogs
The treatment for oral pain in dogs will vary depending on the underlying cause. For example, if your dog has tooth decay, they may need to have the affected tooth extracted. If they have gingivitis, they’ll likely need a professional teeth cleaning and medication to help reduce inflammation.
Mouth injuries will usually require cleanings and stitching as well as pain medication.
Preventing Oral Pain in Dogs
These are some things you can do to help prevent oral pain in dogs, including:
- Brushing your dog’s teeth regularly. The best way to brush your dog’s teeth is with a pet-specific toothbrush and toothpaste.
- Giving your dog dental chews and toys. This can help to remove plaque and tartar from your dog’s teeth.
- Feeding your dog a healthy diet. A high-fiber diet can help reduce plaque buildup on your dog’s teeth.
- Visiting the vet for regular checkups. This will help recognize any problems early on and treat them before they become serious.
To End
In dogs, oral pains are most commonly caused by tooth decay, gingivitis, or mouth injuries, all of which require treatment from a reputable vet clinic, such as La Pine Animal Hospital Inc. Watch out for signs of oral pain in your dog, and take them to a reliable vet immediately if you think they may be in pain.
With proper care and prevention, you can help your dog avoid oral pain altogether.
