Common Dental Problems for Pets (And What to Do About Them)

When was the last time you checked your pet’s teeth? Dental health plays a big role in your pet’s overall well-being, yet it can be overlooked by even the most caring pet owners. From bad breath to loose teeth, dental issues can cause significant discomfort and lead to more severe health problems if left untreated. 

In this post, the team at Blue Lake Animal Hospital shares a list of dental issues your furry friend might face, some potential causes, and actionable solutions.

Common Pet Dental Problems and How to Treat Them

1. Broken or Loose Teeth

• Causes: Trauma from chewing hard objects, falls, or accidents.
• Symptoms: Visible fractures, teeth that move when touched, reluctance to chew.
• Solution: Seek immediate veterinary dental care. Damage like this can cause pain and infection if untreated.

2. Bad Breath

• Causes: Plaque buildup, gum disease, or food particles stuck in teeth.
• Symptoms: Persistent bad smell from your pet’s mouth.
• Solution:
  • Schedule regular professional dental cleanings.
  • Introduce toothbrushing if possible.

3. Tartar Buildup

• Causes: Accumulated plaque hardens into tartar along the gumline.
• Symptoms: Yellow or brown discoloration on the teeth.
• Solution:
  • Regular brushing with pet-friendly toothpaste.
  • Professional cleanings to remove tartar, especially below the gumline.

4. Abnormal Chewing, Drooling, or Dropping Food

• Causes: Pain or discomfort from gum disease, loose teeth, or oral ulcers.
• Symptoms: Dropping food while eating, excessive drooling, or chewing on one side of the mouth.
• Solution: Book an appointment with a veterinary dentist for a thorough examination to address any underlying infections or dental problems.

5. Pain in or Around the Mouth

• Causes: Gum inflammation, tooth infection, or abscesses.
• Symptoms:
  • Disinterest in toys or chews.
  • Whining when touched near the mouth.
• Solution: Veterinary intervention is necessary to diagnose the cause and provide treatment, such as antibiotics or extractions.

6. Swelling Around the Mouth

• Causes: Abscesses, infections, or oral tumors.
• Symptoms: Noticeable lumps or swelling near the jaws or gums.
• Solution: Swelling often signals serious infections or other conditions. Consult a vet without delay.

7. Bleeding from the Mouth

• Causes: Advanced gum disease, trauma, or ulcers.
• Symptoms:
  • Blood in saliva or around toys.
  • Signs of discomfort when eating or playing.
• Solution: Treat this as an emergency. Contact a vet immediately for diagnosis and care.

Why Professional Dental Care is Essential

While brushing and home care are an important part of your pet’s dental health, professional dental care offers a more thorough solution to prevent and treat dental issues. A veterinary dentist can provide:

• Comprehensive Cleanings: Vets clean below the gumline, an area hard to address at home but crucial for preventing gum disease.
• X-Rays Under Anesthesia: Most dental diseases are hidden below the gumline. Anesthesia ensures your pet remains still so vets can assess the full scope of their dental health.
• Expert Procedures: Procedures like extractions or treating infections require specialized knowledge only veterinarians provide.

At Blue Lake Animal Hospital, our veterinary dentists are experienced in providing gentle, professional dental care for your pets. From routine cleanings to advanced procedures, we’re committed to your pet’s health and comfort.

Keep Your Pet Smiling!

Your pet’s dental health isn’t just about avoiding bad breath or shiny teeth. It’s closely linked to their overall well-being. Regular home care, combined with professional cleanings, can help your pet stay happy, healthy, and pain-free.

If you notice any signs of dental discomfort in your pet, don’t wait! Reach out to the compassionate team at Blue Lake Animal Hospital to schedule a dental check-up. Together, we’ll ensure your furry friend enjoys a lifetime of healthy smiles.