Dental problems have serious health consequences for dogs. In fact, PetPlace.com estimates that 85 percent of dogs over two years old show early signs of tooth problems caused by dental periodontitis. It is the most common disease in small animals. If left untreated, the teeth can loosen, break or have to be removed. While dogs may have other dental problems, this is the most common and serious one.
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Gingivitis
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Gingivitis, or gum disease, is the first stage of periodontitis. It happens when the dog's gums become inflamed because of food is trapped and begins decaying near the gum line. If not treated, it will lead to periodontitis, loose teeth, and bone and tooth loss.
Periodontitis
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Periodontitis, also known as periodontal disease, begins when food particles accumulate near a dog's gum line. It then forms into plaque and eventually hardens into calculus---a hard crust that happens when plaque is combined with a dog's saliva and minerals.
The calculus irritates the dog's gums and causes gingivitis. Gingivitis is the first stage of periodontal disease. If the calculus is not removed, it builds up and separates the gum from the tooth. As a result, bacteria can penetrate under the gums and cause an infection, according to PetMD.com.
Periodontitis Warning Signs
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Because our pets can't tell us, owners should be aware of the warning signs of tooth problems. Bad breath is an important indication that your dog may have tooth problems. Lack of appetite, loose teeth and bleeding gums are also signals that something may be wrong. Other signs include weight loss, trouble chewing and yellow or spotted teeth. Your vet can do a dental exam to determine if your dog has these teeth problems.
Periodontitis Causes
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According to PetEducation.com, dogs tend to develop teeth problems as they age. It is also common in dogs who are in poor health or who eat soft canned food. Hard kibble helps to rub the plaque off a dog's teeth, preventing some tooth problems.
Dogs who chew on toys also reduce the likelihood of plaque formation. Small dogs and breeds that have brachycephalic, or "pushed-in" faces, such as boxers, pugs and bulldogs are more likely to have dental problems because their teeth are close together.
Other Tooth Problems
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Dogs can get tooth fractures when they chew on hard objects like rocks, metals or even hard bones. The fracture may become infected within the tooth, called endodontic disease. The dog's veterinarian can treat this condition by pulling the affected tooth, preventing the spread of the infection and alleviating discomfort.
Malocclusion of the jaw, which means that the upper and low teeth do not meet, is also seen in dogs. If the lower jaw is longer, it is termed as "undershot." If the upper jaw is too long, it is "overshot." Unless the jaws are severely misaligned, the dog will be able to eat normally. However, serious cases may need treatment because the biting surfaces of the tooth suffer from uneven wear and are more susceptible to injury.
Prevention and Treatment
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Just like people, dogs need their teeth brushed every day to remove plaque and prevent periodontits. Dogs who have their teeth brushed starting when they are puppies are more likely to accept this practice.
Dogs who need a dental cleaning are put under anesthesia by a veterinarian for this procedure. The teeth are then scraped with a machine called a cavitron, scaled and polished with specially designed dog dental tools. Generally, dogs need a yearly dental cleaning to prevent tooth problems.
For other teeth problems, the dog's veterinarian can also provide dental care.
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