According to the American Veterinary Dental College, dental disease is the most common health problem in adult dogs. This condition is progressive and can lead to other severe health problems if not promptly treated. Because dental disease is so common, responsible dog owners need to understand what kind of dental problems dogs commonly face, how these problems affect general health, how to recognize the symptoms of dental problems in dogs and what to do about canine dental disease.
Dental Disease in Dogs
Eighty percent of dogs develop periodontal disease by the time they are three years old. This disease begins when oral bacteria form sticky plaque. This plaque hardens into tartar, a substance that is difficult to remove. Tartar and plaque spread under the gums where they cause quite a bit of damage.
Under the gums, plaque and tartar create pockets that allow for bacterial infiltration. Bacterial infection leads to tissue damage, inflammation, bone infection and tooth loss. In addition, bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and spread to other organs. While periodontal disease is the most common dental disease found in dogs, our canine companions are subject to other dental problems. These include dental fractures and oral cancer.
Dental Health and General Health
Dental disease affects the whole body. Bacteria that migrate from the mouth can cause heart disease, kidney problems, liver disease and other issues. Oral tumors can spread throughout the body. Dental inflammation can lead to a variety of health problems, and the pain caused by dental disease can lead to malnutrition.
Dental Health and Quality of Life
Dental disease is extremely painful. Having a sore mouth can ruin your dog’s pleasure in food, limit his or her ability to play games, like fetch, and spoil their enjoyment in playing with toys.
Symptoms of Dental Disease
There is no substitute for a veterinary oral examination because dogs are stoic. This means that your dog can have advanced dental disease before you realize there is a problem. Some potential symptoms of dental disease you might notice, however, include the following:
- Discoloured teeth
- Bad breath
- Drooling
- Dropping food
- Unwillingness to eat
- Weight loss
- Bleeding from the mouth
- Loose teeth
- Sensitivity about being touched on or near the mouth (but generally your dog or cat will not tell you when they have this problem)
Professional Dental Care
The best way to prevent and treat dental disease in dogs is to provide your pet with regular dental care. During your pet’s annual veterinary visit, your veterinarian will do a basic evaluation of your dog’s general health. If this examination reveals signs of dental disease, further examination and treatment are indicated.
While most people can sit in a dentist’s chair with their mouths open for a basic oral examination and cleaning, dogs cannot do this. Anaesthesia is required for a complete examination and cleaning. While your dog is under anaesthesia for a cleaning and examination, the treating veterinarian can also take x-rays and treat any problems revealed by the examination.
Home Dental Care
Some steps you can take to keep your dog’s teeth healthy between cleanings and minimize dental problems include the following:
- Daily brushing with a veterinary-approved product
- Using an anti plaque and antibacterial rinse called Healthy Mouth
- Choosing dental diets, treats and toys recommended by the Veterinary Oral Health Council
- Watching for signs of oral disease and seeking prompt treatment at the first sign of a problem
It is important to remember that home care is very valuable, but it is no substitute for professional treatment. The best way to keep your pet healthy and pain free is to combine regular home care with professional veterinary treatment.
If it’s time for you to book a checkup- contact us now.
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