Featured News 2014 Common Dental Problems in Dogs

Common Dental Problems in Dogs

If is very important that you do all you can to prevent your dog from suffering dental disease. There are some common dental problems that you should be aware of and work to prevent in your pet. The first is the common issue of plaque and tartar. Like humans, dogs can suffer serious plaque and tartar build-up. This can eventually result in tissue damage to the gums surrounding your pet's teeth. Tartar and calculi appears as tan and brown color deposits on your dog's teeth. When these are not treated, your pet may eventually suffer teeth loss and infected guns. You may want to consider brushing your pet's teeth frequently or giving your dog treats that help to prevent tartar build-up.

Another dental danger for pets is periodontal disease. This is a disease that begins by affecting the tissues surrounding your pet's teeth. Gingivitis is a symptom of periodontal disease, causing the gums to become inflamed. As well, the majority of dental disease occurs below the gumline where a pet owner is unable to see the damage that is taking place.

Another dental illness commonly found in pets is stomatitis. This is a disease which occurs when the oral mucous membranes are inflamed. Although dogs can suffer from stomatitis, it is more common in cats. It can cause starvation as the pet has a difficult time eating.

Pets that have chronically bad breath most likely have poor dental hygiene. Not only is bad breath irritating and undesirable, but it is also a sign of decay inside the mouth. You will want to take your pet to a veterinarian for a checkup if the animal is constantly dealing with bad breath issues.

Without careful attention, pets can also suffer toothache. You can tell if your pet has a toothache if the animal stops eating and begins to lose weight. Animals that are suffering from a toothache may appear depressed, and will refuse any food, often including treats. If you are concerned that your pet's behavior indicates a toothache, you may want to take him or her to the vet.

It is also concerning if your small dog has retained baby teeth. These are also called retained deciduous teeth in the medical field. Retained baby teeth can make it difficult for the pet to grow in adult dog teeth properly. This can cause infection and impacted teeth, resulting in extreme discomfort in the future.

Many pet owners don't realize that dental illness can be a sign pointing to an even bigger problem. Oftentimes, dental infections can cause systemic illnesses such as kidney disease and heart disease as the infection travels. If you think that your pet has a dental issue, you need to try to get it treated as soon as possible.

It is also important to take your animal in for checkups and dental visits frequently. Your dog may need sedation in order to give him or her a good dental checkup. The examination may include X-rays of your pets teeth, a professional cleaning, tartar removal, and other inspections to make sure that your pet's dental area is healthy and sound. If you want more information about pet dental work, or if you are worried that your pet has a dental illness and you want to get it treated, don't hesitate to call a local right away. With the right veterinarian there to care for your pet, you can trust that your animal is in good hands and is getting sound and reliable care. Use this directory to locate a vet near you!

Related News:

Before you Head to the Vet

If your pet is sick, naturally you want to take him or her to the vet right away. But before you grab the leash or kitty kennel and head off to the nearest clinic, there are some things you may want ...
Read More »

Can Pets Prevent Allergies in Humans?

Ask any obstetrician or pediatrician, they have stories of patients who rehomed their pets, or worse, drove them down to the animal shelter because they were expecting a child or worried that their ...
Read More »

Why Marijuana and Pets Don’t Mix

With the popularity of marijuana for recreational and medical use, vets across the country are seeing more pets who suffer adverse side effects after being exposed to the popular drug. Pets are ...
Read More »