Dogs rely on their owners to spot any potential health problems. Therefore, it is important to be able to spot any symptoms of canine dental problems before they become serious. Delaying treatment for any problems could lead to several serious problems for your pet. They may stop eating because of tooth pain, and ultimately their teeth could fall out. Canine dental heath is an often overlooked yet important aspect of your dog's overall care.
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Know Your Breed
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Different breeds have different susceptibilities for dental health problems. Small breeds, for instance, are at a higher risk of tooth decay because their teeth are packed closer together. This spurs plaque buildup, which will decay teeth unless removed. Unlike plaque in people, plaque in dogs is very hard, and is difficult to remove if left untreated. This is why it's important to clean your dog's teeth regularly. Larger dogs are at more of a risk for cracking teeth, since they tend to chew on bigger, more durable objects, and can exert greater force with their larger jaws. Knowing what kind of trouble your dog can get into will help in diagnosing any problems that may occur.
Periodontal Problems
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Periodontal problems are problems with your dog's gums. The gums play an important role in dental health, so it's best to keep a watchful eye on them if you start to notice any changes. Signs that you're looking for include any marked changes, including a change in color or any change in gum height. Gums will often recede when there's a problem. The gums might become reddish and inflamed. If they turn a white or pale color, this can often be a sign of excessive blood loss or internal bleeding in your dog. While not a dental problem, you should take you dog to the vet right away if you notice this.
Tooth Problems
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There are many ways to tell if a tooth is bothering your dog. He might stop eating, or might concentrate all his chewing on one side of his mouth, so as to avoid a sensitive tooth. He might whine or whimper, or rub his muzzle with his paw. Maybe he doesn't chew his favorite toy or fetch a ball the way he usually does. He might drool a lot more than normal, or constantly lick at his nose. All of these symptoms are your dog's way of telling you there's something wrong. In addition to any changes in behavior, you can also often recognize any dental problems by a visual examination. Check for loose teeth, or even missing teeth. Feel if there are any abnormal bumps in your dog's mouth. Bad breath is another symptom of dental problems. If your dog shows any of these signs, he should be taken to a vet.
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