Unfortunately for our canine friends , many suffer from dental problems. It's actually quite common, especially in dogs over two years old.
While some dental problems in dogs may be harmless, this is not the case for all of them. However, recognizing, treating , and preventing oral health problems is far from simple, despite your best intentions!
At BF Petfood, your furry friend's oral hygiene is our top priority. That's why today we're sharing more information about dental problems in dogs and how to recognize them! 🐕
The 6 most common dental problems in dogs
A dog's mouth is an environment conducive to the development of bacteria : dry and subjected to strong mechanical stresses, it can quickly accumulate plaque and tartar .
If you notice unusual behavior in your dog, it could be a sign of a dental problem. BF Pet Food presents the 6 most common dental problems in dogs !
1 – Dental plaque and tartar
After each meal, an invisible film of bacteria is deposited on the dog's teeth: this is dental plaque.
If it is not removed by brushing or chewing , it mineralizes and becomes tartar, which is hard and rough and promotes gum inflammation. This is one of the most common problems seen in our canine friends.
2 – Gingivitis
The first stage of periodontal disease , gingivitis, manifests as redness and swelling of the gums. Pain, bleeding when chewing, and bad breath are its clinical signs. Much like in humans!
3 – Periodontitis
When gingivitis is not treated, it can progress to periodontitis : the progressive destruction of the tooth's supporting tissues (alveolar bone and ligament) then leads to the loosening of teeth, or even their loss.
4 – Dental fractures
A blow or chewing on objects that are too hard can cause a tooth to fracture (partially or completely). Fractures are divided into crown fractures (visible) and root fractures (more insidious, they can lead to abscesses and chronic pain).
It is a rarer dental problem, but one that should not be ruled out if you realize that your dog is no longer eating.
5 – Cavities
While less common than in humans, cavities can still occur, especially in dogs fed high-sugar kibble. They cause holes in the enamel and pain when chewing. Hence the importance of choosing good-quality kibble !
6 – Malocclusions and inclusions
Finally, some dogs have misaligned jaws (malocclusion) or persistent baby teeth (impactions), often leading to irritation, tongue or gum sores.
This is a situation that your vet should monitor closely! 🐩
What are the symptoms of a dental problem in a dog?
Generally speaking, dental problems in dogs do not go unnoticed. Just like in humans, tooth pain is difficult to bear.
You will then be able to spot the clues that will allow you to understand that something is wrong:
- Persistent bad breath : a healthy dog has neutral breath. An unpleasant odor may indicate a mouth infection.
- Red, swollen, or bloody gums
- Difficulty eating or refusing certain foods: if your dog nibbles, chews only on one side, or refuses his kibble, his teeth may be causing him pain.
- Excessive drooling, sometimes tinged with blood
- A drastic change in behavior
- Abnormal plaque growth : a yellow-brown deposit along the gingival sulcus, visible to the naked eye, indicates the formation of tartar.
- A tooth falling out
If you observe any of these symptoms, don't wait: make an appointment with your veterinarian as soon as possible! Indeed, dental problems in dogs never resolve themselves: medical treatment is often necessary.
How to treat a canine dental problem?
Of course, the treatment of dental problems in dogs depends on the situation.
In all cases, you will need to make an appointment with a veterinarian : these situations often involve medical treatment, and should not be taken lightly.
Treatment options can range from a simple dental cleaning to a tooth extraction , including antibiotics in case of infection. Consult a trusted veterinarian to determine the best course of action in such situations!
Preventing dental problems in dogs: all the best practices
Although dental problems affect many dogs in France, it's not inevitable: there are good habits you can adopt to avoid these unpleasant situations. BF Petfood offers some advice!
Regular tooth brushing
First of all, even though it may seem silly, it is recommended to brush your dog's teeth regularly. Depending on the breed, the ideal frequency is considered to be about 3 brushings per week.
Even if the first few times can be quite difficult (your little one not being used to having their teeth brushed), with a suitable toothbrush and toothpaste with chicken or beef flavors, you shouldn't have too much trouble.
Adopt a suitable diet
Of course, the best way to prevent dental problems in dogs is with a balanced diet.
Invest in cold-pressed kibble , adopt a BARF or raw diet… Don’t hesitate to ask your veterinarian for advice and try different solutions to find something that suits your dog.
🐶 BFPetfood's tip:
A well-hydrated dog salivates more, which limits local bacterial growth: make sure he always has access to water! And also be sure to clean his bowl regularly to prevent biofilms .
Give him/her some chew toys
One thing that's absolutely essential for dogs is having access to toys that address oral health issues . Whether it's chew bones or dental treats , it can make all the difference.
Indeed, these small supplements help maintain excellent dental hygiene for your dog and regulate their system . Essential for your dog's good health!
Schedule regular appointments with the veterinarian
Finally, the last good practice to prevent dental problems in dogs is to take them to the vet regularly.
With his experienced eye, he will be able to anticipate the appearance of certain problems and prevent them in order to avoid overly aggressive treatment.
Choose a trusted veterinarian, and don't hesitate to schedule regular appointments!
Take care of your dog's teeth to avoid dental problems!
Taking care of your dog's teeth ensures their comfort and health. Not to mention that it costs much less than emergency dental work at the vet !
Therefore, be sure to pay close attention to any signs of pain or changes in behavior to anticipate the onset of dental problems in your dog . And if in doubt, don't hesitate: make an appointment with your vet !
