Dental Disease in Dogs: Warning Signs Every Owner Should Know Bad breath is often the first thing owners notice, but dental disease can involve far more than an unpleasant smell. In some cases, it can affect a dog’s ability to eat comfortably, cause significant pain, and even have wider health implications. While good home care […]
Dental Disease in Dogs: Warning Signs Every Owner Should Know
Bad breath is often the first thing owners notice, but dental disease can involve far more than an unpleasant smell. In some cases, it can affect a dog’s ability to eat comfortably, cause significant pain, and even have wider health implications.
While good home care can help slow the build-up of plaque and tartar, dental disease remains a common condition, particularly in smaller breeds. Recognising the signs early and seeking veterinary advice can help prevent more serious problems developing.
Dental disease can present in a number of ways. Some signs are obvious, while others can be mistaken for normal changes in behaviour. Signs to watch for include:
Some signs require urgent veterinary attention. Pawing at the mouth or rubbing the mouth on the ground can indicate severe acute pain and may require emergency dental treatment.
Lumps on the muzzle beneath the eye can be particularly serious. When associated with periodontal disease, these may be root abscesses. If left untreated, they may burst and permanently damage the eye, making emergency veterinary intervention necessary.
Small and toy breed dogs weighing less than 10kg are particularly predisposed to periodontal disease. Their smaller skulls can lead to overcrowding of the teeth, creating an environment where bacteria can accumulate more effectively and plaque can develop.
Greyhounds are also recognised as being predisposed.
Owners should also be aware that periodontal disease is a hereditary condition. Some dogs are genetically predisposed and may require more dental care than others. Even two puppies from the same litter can have very different dental health needs.
Dental disease and heavy tartar build-up involve bacteria that circulate in the bloodstream every day. According to the veterinary advice provided, these bacteria can negatively affect vital organs, particularly the kidneys.
Even when owners follow good home-care routines, many dogs, especially smaller breeds, will require veterinary dental treatment at some point in their lives.
Brushing remains one of the most effective ways to slow the build-up of plaque and tartar.
The veterinary team recommends introducing brushing gradually:
Offer toothpaste on your finger as a treat. Enzymatic toothpastes are often recommended as they contain enzymes that help dissolve plaque more efficiently. Some are available in dog-friendly flavours, such as chicken.
Place toothpaste on a finger toothbrush or a toothbrush with soft bristles and allow your dog to become familiar with the texture.
Start brushing your dog’s teeth gently.
If your dog remains reluctant, return to the first stage and repeat the process from the beginning.
The advice provided is to brush as often as possible, even if this means brushing once per week. Patience is particularly important when introducing brushing to adult and senior dogs.
Dental chews such as Greenies and Pedigree Dentastix can also be used as part of a dental care routine. Owners should ensure they choose the correct size for their dog.
If a dental procedure is recommended, pre-anaesthetic blood tests are advised before every general anaesthetic, particularly for patients over eight years of age.
During the procedure, pets receive intravenous fluids and pain relief administered by injection.
Where tooth extractions have been required, wet food is fed exclusively for ten days following the procedure. Pain relief should also be continued exactly as prescribed by the vet.
Two post-operative checks are typically carried out, on the second day and the tenth day following the procedure.
Dental checks are recommended at least once a year and are often carried out during vaccination appointments.
If you notice any of the signs of dental disease listed above, book a pre-dental check with your local Highfield clinic. The severity of dental disease can then be assessed and an estimate provided based on the findings of the consultation.
If treatment is required, your veterinary team will guide you through the process, including any recommended pre-anaesthetic blood tests, the dental procedure itself and the aftercare needed to support your pet’s recovery.
Author: Zofia Adles, Veterinary Surgeon, Portlaoise
