7 Signs of Dental Disease in Dogs

When it comes to our dog’s dental health, it can be pretty difficult to tell when they are suffering from a painful condition because they aren't able to voice their discomfort like humans can. Dental diseases can lead to  painful mouths and tooth loss, but left untreated, periodontal disease increases the risk for chronic infections in the mouth, potentially spreading to other areas of the body, including the liver, lungs, kidneys and heart.

Therefore, being able to identify the signs and symptoms that your dog might be in pain can be a very important part of being a pet owner. We can’t stress the importance to be regularly and actively involved in your pets' preventative dental health care. 

Dogs Rarely Show Signs of Pain and Discomfort

Your pet may be in chronic pain, but you wouldn’t know it. Why? 
Dogs have evolved to hide chronic pain, they are born in such a way that their animal instincts tell them not to show signs of weaknesses.

Even with a cracked tooth or periodontal disease that damages gums around the teeth, your dog would probably eat normally, wiggle happily at your return home, and overall act like the same dog you know and love. Dogs are five times more prone to gum diseases than humans for a couple of reasons. Dogs have a more alkaline mouth, which promotes plaque formation. And, unlike humans, dogs usually don't have their teeth brushed daily. We’ve gathered up some of the most common signs and symptoms that could potentially mean your dog might be suffering from a dental disease.

1. Unusual Drooling

If your dog starts drooling more frequently than usual, he could potentially be suffering from a tooth injury. The reason for this is that the salivary glands work overtime whenever there's an injury or pain in the mouth. In some cases, blood may be visible in the saliva. If this is the case, you should take your dog to the veterinarian as soon as possible because he may have a more serious problem.

2. Bad Breath in Dogs

If your dog's breath is starting to smell foul, then he may have something going on in his mouth. It can be a sign that your dog may have tooth decay or an infection, and either one of these may be causing her to experience tooth pain.

3. Lack of Appetite

When a dog is suffering from tooth pain, he may not eat as much as he usually does because it may be hurting him to chew. You may notice him start eating and then abruptly stop. He also may whine when eating or spit out his food. Loss of appetite is a symptom that may be associated with many health problems, so regardless of whether or not the cause of it is tooth pain, take your dog to your veterinarian immediately if his appetite suddenly changes.

4. Chewing Only on One Side of the Mouth 

Like humans, when a dog has tooth pain on one side of his mouth, he may chew only on the side that isn't painful. He may suddenly drop food or a toy he is carrying in his mouth if it accidentally touches the painful side.

5. Shyness

If your dog suddenly starts moving his head away from your hand, tooth pain may be causing him to act shy. He may be afraid that it will increase his pain.

6. Visible Changes in Your Dog's Mouth

Sometimes, you may be able to tell there's something wrong in your dog's mouth just by looking at his mouth, which is something you should do regularly to ensure good oral health. You may notice one side of his mouth is swollen, or you may notice inflamed or bleeding gums, fractured or missing teeth, or lesions on his gums during an oral check.

7. Pawing at Mouth  

If you notice your dog pawing at their mouth or rubbing their muzzle, this could be them trying to tell you that they’re experiencing pain, discomfort or irritation in their mouth due to dental disease.  

How to Treat and Prevent Toothaches  

• Take your dog in for regular oral exams and cleanings
• Brush your dog's teeth every day.
• Feed your dog quality dog food.
• Offer safe toys and treats for daily chewing.
• Do your own oral examinations regularly.

 
Prevention is better than cure! Like how it is important to look after our own teeth, our pets are no different! Regularly checking for these signs of dental disease and implementing a daily dental routine will quickly improve their dental health, as well as their overall happiness and wellbeing.

You can also read this article to find out more about how you can support your dog in living its best life! 

Tags: Guide