Common Dental Conditions in Dogs and Cats: What Every Pet Owner Should Know
Dental Health: More Than Just Fresh Breath
Many pet owners don’t realize how common and serious dental issues are in dogs and cats. By age three, most pets show some form of dental disease, which can lead to pain, infections, tooth loss, broken jaws, and even organ damage if left untreated.
At Mid-Valley Veterinary Clinic, we see a wide range of dental problems and are committed to helping pets maintain strong, healthy teeth. Learn more about our approach to dental care on our Dental Services page.
1. Periodontal Disease: The Most Common Dental Issue
What Is It?
Periodontal disease is caused by a buildup of plaque and tartar that leads to gum inflammation (gingivitis) and can progress to severe infection and tooth loss.
Signs of Periodontal Disease:
- Bad breath (one of the earliest warning signs)
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Loose or missing teeth
- Pain when eating or reluctance to chew hard food
- Pawing at the mouth or excessive drooling
Why It Matters
Untreated periodontal disease is painful, and in addition to tooth loss it can allow bacteria to enter the bloodstream, potentially damaging the heart, liver, and kidneys.
2. Tooth Fractures: A Painful and Common Problem
What Causes Broken Teeth?
Pets can fracture their teeth by chewing on hard objects (like bones or antlers), experiencing trauma, or due to underlying dental disease.
Symptoms of a Fractured Tooth:
- Sudden disinterest in food or chewing only on one side
- Pawing at the face or mouth
- Visible cracks or breaks in a tooth
- Bleeding from the mouth
Treatment Options
Fractured teeth can lead to pain and infection, often requiring extraction or a root canal. Prompt veterinary care is essential to prevent abscesses and further complications.
3. Tooth Resorption: A Hidden Danger in Cats
What Is It?
Tooth resorption is a common but often undiagnosed condition in cats, where the body begins to break down the structure of a tooth from the inside out. This is an extremely painful condition, but because cats instinctively hide pain, it often goes unnoticed.
Signs of Tooth Resorption:
- Reluctance to eat or dropping food from the mouth
- Excessive drooling
- Bleeding from the gums
- Teeth that appear to be missing or partially dissolved
Diagnosis and Treatment
Because this condition isn’t always visible, dental X-rays are necessary to diagnose it. Affected teeth must be extracted or amputated at the crown, as they cannot be saved. Our advanced imaging technology helps us catch and treat this painful condition early—learn more about it on our Diagnostics page.
4. Cavities in Pets: Are They a Concern?
Are Cavities Common in Pets?
Unlike humans, pets are less prone to cavities due to differences in their diet and oral bacteria. However, cavities do occasionally occur, especially in dogs who consume high-carbohydrate diets or sugary treats.
Signs of Tooth Decay:
- Brown or black spots on teeth
- Sensitivity when eating
- Foul-smelling breath
How to Prevent Cavities
- Regular brushing with pet-safe toothpaste
- Dental chews and specialized diets to reduce plaque
- Annual dental cleanings to remove buildup before it becomes a problem
5. Stomatitis: A Severe Oral Inflammation
What Is Stomatitis?
Stomatitis is a severe inflammation of the mouth and gums, often seen in cats with underlying immune system issues. It can cause extreme pain and difficulty eating.
Symptoms of Stomatitis:
- Severe gum redness and swelling
- Drooling (sometimes with blood)
- Avoiding food despite being hungry
- Hissing or running away when their face is touched
How Is It Treated?
In severe cases, full or partial tooth extractions may be required to relieve pain. Early detection can improve outcomes, so regular veterinary check-ups are critical.
Preventing Dental Disease in Pets
What Can You Do at Home?
- Brush your pet’s teeth regularly using vet-approved toothpaste.
- Provide dental chews and water additives to help reduce plaque.
- Feed a balanced diet that promotes oral health.
Why Professional Dental Care Matters
Even with great home care, professional dental cleanings are essential to remove tartar and detect hidden dental problems. Learn more about how we can help on our Dental Services page.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pet Dental Conditions
1. How do I know if my pet is in dental pain?
Signs include avoiding food, drooling, pawing at the mouth, bad breath, and behavioral changes such as irritability or withdrawal. Even if your pet doesn’t show a behavioral sign, seeing redness, inflammation, bleeding, or missing teeth is a clear sign that discomfort is happening.
2. How often should my pet have a dental check-up?
We recommend annual dental exams for most pets. Senior pets or those with existing dental issues may need more frequent evaluations.
3. What should I do in case of a dental emergency?
If your pet has severe pain, swelling, or a broken tooth, seek immediate veterinary attention to prevent infection.
For more expert advice on pet dental care, explore these trusted resources:
Schedule a Dental Exam at Mid-Valley Veterinary
Dental health is vital to your pet’s overall well-being and longevity. Don’t wait until problems arise—schedule a dental check-up today!
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