Healthy teeth not only give your pet a glowing smile, but can also be an indication of their overall good health. The opposite can mean your pet could be feeling lots of pain caused by dental disease. Dental disease causes inflammation and is one of the most common diseases our veterinary team sees. It can be difficult to spot the signs so it’s important to stay vigilant.
Why is dental disease common?
Dental disease happens when gingivitis (gum disease) is left untreated and the infection spreads deeper into the tooth socket, destroying the bone. Eventually, the tooth could fall out. Gum disease starts when a buildup of plaque, bacteria, and saliva combine under the gum line. Some pets may not have good oral hygiene as their teeth aren’t cleaned properly (both at home and professionally), so it worsens overtime. This can be painful for your pet, especially when they cannot communicate their pain in the same ways we can. If you’re interested in learning more about dental disease, please contact us at 705-753-0324.
How do I know if my pet has dental pain?
Depending on your furry friend’s temperament and the stage of the disease, they won’t outwardly show any signs of pain. However, if you pay close enough attention to them, you may notice any of the following:
- Less interest in eating dry food or hard treats
- Chewing slower than usual
- Dropping food while chewing
- Drooling excessively
- Pawing at their mouth
- Resisting being touching near their face or mouth
Is it treatable?
Our veterinary team will likely recommend a comprehensive oral health assessment and treatment to address the underlying cause of your pet’s dental disease. To ensure your pet’s comfort and safety, we’ll place them under anesthesia to perform the oral exam and thorough cleaning. Next, we’ll create a plan – unique to your pet’s needs – to address their dental issues. This could include removing diseased teeth or performing a root canal. Your pet could also be prescribed antibiotics or pain medication.
