While it’s normal for your beloved pet’s mouth to be stinky and slobbery, you may be wondering if their oral hygiene is in good shape. Like humans, they require periodic dental cleaning and care, making it a good idea to bring your pooch for a visit from time to time.
There are some things you can do to prevent a buildup of tartar on your dog’s teeth, like brushing them with special toothpaste and buying the right chew toys at your local holistic pet store. Still, it’s essential to know the signs of rotting teeth in dogs to address the situation before it gets worse. Here’s what you need to know about rotten teeth in dogs:
The Main Warning Signs
There are five main signs to watch out for when inspecting your dog’s teeth.
Tartar or Plaque
A buildup of hardened plaque often manifests itself as yellow, orange, or brown stains. This often appears along the gum line or inside the teeth.
Cavities
Dogs can get cavities, too, just like humans. They often appear as dark spots on the tooth’s surface or as big, dark holes, indicating an advanced cavity.
Gingivitis
Gingivitis presents itself as red, swollen gums around the teeth, which indicate inflammation. It is usually accompanied by some plaque at the bottom of teeth as well. When left to progress, it can turn into severe periodontitis, which will make the gums look like they’re pulling away from your teeth, eventually forming pockets that may bleed or form pus. If your dog’s gums begin bleeding, it’s likely due to this condition.
Discolored Teeth
Yellow or brown teeth along the gum line are often a sign of tartar and plaque buildup.
Bad Breath
Foul-smelling breath may be a sign of other medical issues like digestive, liver, and kidney problems, although it’s also linked to poor dental health.
Symptoms of Dog Tooth Abscess
It can be difficult to spot these signs in your pet’s mouth since they can often turn away when you try to inspect their teeth. However, other signs may indicate dog tooth abscesses or issues with their dental health, like head shyness. In this instance, your pet may not allow you to touch or interact with one side of their face, mouth, or even their entire head, as they may be in pain. It also often indicates rotten teeth.
If they have difficulty eating and chewing their food or if you spot them eating very carefully, they may be struggling with tooth pain. If they’re drooling or dribbling saliva much more than usual, it can also mean issues with their teeth.
Preventing Dog Teeth Problems
Taking care of your dog’s dental hygiene will help prevent gingivitis and periodontitis, which will delay tooth loss once your dog enters its senior years. For instance, use special toothpaste to brush your dog’s teeth, which will keep them clean and in good shape. Give them soft, teeth-friendly toys to avoid tooth degradation, which you can find at a healthy pet store in Chelsea. You’ll also want to be picky about their food and treats, some of which can exacerbate existing issues.
Conclusion
Caring for your dog goes beyond bathing it, feeding it properly, and bringing them to the vet every so often for a checkup. You’ll also need to watch out for its dental health by taking it for teeth cleaning and brushing its teeth regularly. By following our guide, your dog’s teeth should stay healthy and sparkling clean.
Wags to Wiskers is a holistic pet store in Chelsea, Ludington, and Ann Arbor. We stock a wide range of local pet supplies and healthy pet food, offering only the best for your furry friends. Check out our products today!