Oral and dental health is crucial for pets, and being aware of clinical signs indicating potential issues can aid pet owners in seeking timely veterinary care. In this guide, we’ll highlight various signs of oral or dental disease in pets, emphasizing the importance of preventive care through regular brushing and examination.
Key Clinical Signs of Oral or Dental Disease in Pets
1. Bad breath (halitosis)
Persistent unpleasant breath can indicate underlying dental issues.
2. Broken tooth/teeth
Fractured or damaged teeth may cause discomfort and require attention.
3. Excessive drooling
Abnormal drooling can be a sign of oral pain or difficulty in eating.
4. Reluctance to eat
Pets may avoid eating, especially dry food, if experiencing dental discomfort.
5. Chewing with one side of the mouth
Favoring one side while chewing may indicate oral pain.
6. Pawing at or rubbing the muzzle/mouth
Pets may exhibit this behavior when experiencing oral discomfort.
7. Bleeding from the mouth
Unexplained bleeding from the mouth warrants immediate veterinary attention.
8. Loss of symmetry of the muzzle and/or lower jaw
Changes in jaw symmetry may suggest oral issues.
9. Swollen/draining tracts under the eye
Swelling or drainage around the eye can be linked to dental problems.
10. Sudden behavior changes
Abrupt shifts in behavior, either aggression or withdrawal, may signal oral pain.
11. Chronic eye infections or drainage
Dental issues can contribute to persistent eye problems.
12. Inability to open or close the mouth
Difficulty in mouth movement requires urgent veterinary evaluation.
13. Chronic sneezing
Persistent sneezing may be linked to dental concerns.
14. Discolored tooth/teeth
Changes in tooth color may indicate dental disease.
15. Abnormal discharge from the nose
Unexplained nasal discharge can be associated with oral problems.
16. A mass/growth in the mouth
Presence of growths or masses in the mouth requires immediate attention.
Action Steps for Pet Owners
If any of these signs are observed, it is essential to take your pet to the veterinarian for a thorough oral examination. The veterinarian may need to use sedation or anesthesia for a comprehensive assessment, including dental radiographs (X-rays) for accurate diagnosis. If the primary-care veterinarian is unsure or if specialized dental care is required, a referral to a veterinarian with advanced certification in dentistry is recommended.
Preventive Care
Preventive care involves regular brushing (3 to 4 times a week) and daily examination of your pet's mouth. This routine helps in maintaining optimal oral health and allows pet owners to spot abnormalities early. By collaborating with both the primary-care veterinarian and a dental specialist, pet owners can enhance their companion's quality of life through proper and timely dental and oral healthcare.
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Products Recommended By Veterinarians for Dog Dental Care at Home
Oral health is a crucial part of your dog’s overall wellness. Regular dental care can prevent bad breath, plaque and tartar buildup, gum disease, and even systemic illness. The products below are trusted by veterinarians to help maintain clean teeth, fresh breath, and a healthy mouth at every stage of life.
Dog Toothbrushes & Toothpastes
- Dog Finger Tooth Brush Wipes – A simple and gentle way to start brushing your dog’s teeth.
- Vet’s Best Toothbrush and Toothpaste Set – Includes a brush and vet-formulated toothpaste for routine oral hygiene.
- Virbac C.E.T. Enzymatic Toothpaste – Enzymatic formula to eliminate plaque, tartar, and bad breath.
- Virbac Silicone Finger Brush Kit – Kit includes a finger brush and poultry-flavored enzymatic toothpaste.
- Senior Dog Dental Kit – Designed for older dogs with sensitive teeth or gum concerns.
Dog Dental Chews & Treats
- Yummy Combs Dental Chews – Deep-cleaning shape designed to scrub teeth and gums.
- Blue Buffalo Dental Chews – A tasty way to support oral health while your dog chews.
- Greenies – Popular dental treats that reduce tartar and freshen breath.
- Virbac C.E.T. HEXtra Premium Oral Chews – Combines abrasive texture with antiseptic protection.
Additional Dental Support for Your Dog
- Dechra Vetradent Water Additive – Helps fight plaque and tartar while freshening breath through your dog’s daily water.
- Dechra Vetradent Dental Wipes – Quick and easy dental cleaning alternative when brushing isn’t an option.
- Dechra Vetradent Dental Spray – Simple spray application to help manage bacteria and reduce plaque buildup.
- Pet Dental Water Additive – Easy to add to your dog’s water to reduce bacteria and plaque.
- Twist Lick Oragel – On-the-go gel for freshening breath and soothing gums.
- VetriScience Healthy Mouth Dog Dental Powder – A powder you can sprinkle over food to support oral hygiene (link coming soon).
Top Picks
For a complete at-home oral care routine, the Vet’s Best Toothbrush and Toothpaste Set is a great place to start and easy to use daily.
Try the Vet’s Best Dental Set Here
Need a convenient way to clean teeth between brushes? The Yummy Combs Dental Chews are a favorite among veterinarians and dogs alike for their effective design and taste.
For advanced plaque control, Virbac C.E.T. Enzymatic Toothpaste is a gold standard in veterinary oral care and comes in dog-approved flavors.
