What Causes Discolored Teeth in Dogs?

Dental hygiene and health is important to dogs' overall health. Many owners take their dogs to the veterinarian annually for a dental checkup, which helps prevent any potential problems before they occur. Dogs may develop dental problems despite an annual dental checkup. One of the signs that something is wrong with your dog's teeth is discoloration.

  1. Plaque Buildup

    • Plaque buildup may cause a dog's teeth to appear yellow or slightly brown. This is common in older dogs, especially those who have never had their teeth brushed. Regular dental checkups and teeth cleaning may prevent plaque buildup, according to Pet Place. Left untreated, plaque buildup can lead to dental infections and cavities, which are painful and often result in dental extractions.

    Tooth Fracture

    • Tooth discoloration is a common symptom of a tooth fracture, according to the American Veterinary Dental Society. A broken tooth exposes the dog's root canal, causing a serious infection. A veterinarian might carry out a dental radiograph to determine the severity of the fracture before recommending treatment.

    Nonvital Tooth

    • One of the most serious causes of tooth discoloration in dogs is a nonvital, or dead, tooth. According to Animal Dentistry and Oral Surgery Specialists, dead or dying teeth cause 90 percent of tooth discoloration cases in animals. Common causes of a nonvital tooth include traumatic injury and severe infections. Root canal therapy may save a dog's dying tooth, but extraction is the only option for a nonvital tooth.