Detecting Dental Disease

As a vet the most common problem I see in pets is dental disease. The really sad thing is that many caring owners simply do not notice their pet's problem. Please take a moment once a month to lift your pet's upper lip and examine the mouth. Here are the signs you should be looking for.




Does Your Pet Show Signs Of Discomfort Around The Mouth?

If your pet backs away, turns their head, struggles or shows similar signs when you look at the mouth this may indicate that they are in pain. You should ask your vet to examine the mouth for you at your next appointment. Rubbing or scratching at the mouth, refusing food, salivation and licking may be other signs of oral discomfort which you may notice.

Does Your Pet's Breath Smell?

Bad breath is not just "doggy odour". It indicates that bacteria are present in the mouth and is an early and sensitive indicator of dental disease.

Can You See Calculus?

Calculus is the brown matter on the teeth which you can see clearly in the picture above. Teeth should be white and clean all the way to the gums.

Are Your Pet's Gums Red?

Healthy gums are pink in colour and taper gently to the tooth. If the gums are red and swollen this indicates gingivitis, an inflammation of the gums. In mild disease there may just be a thin red line along the gums where they meet the teeth but this should still be taken seriously.

What To Do Next

If you notice any of the signs listed above you should consult your vet. The calculus you see harbors bacteria. These bacteria release toxins which gradually destroy the periodontal ligament holding the tooth in place. Redness along the gums indicates that this process has begun. The problem is that you cannot see how much destruction has already taken place under the line of the gum. Eventually the gums recede allowing food to become trapped and the calculus moves deeper. Painful abscesses may develop. Eventually the periodontal ligament will be completely destroyed and the tooth will be lost.


Did You Know That Dental Disease Can Lead To Problems In Other Parts Of The Body?

Some of those bacteria in the mouth are being swallowed all the time. There is a constant "drip feed" of bacteria and their associated toxins into your pet's body. This will stress the immune system. The kidneys, brain and heart can all be affected by this constant source of infection arising from the mouth. Dental disease can therefore lead to many more serious problems and ultimately may cause an early death.

Remember Dental Disease Is Painful For The Pet And Can Lead To Serious Systemic Problems.

If your pet has dental issues please consult your vet. Many of the changes associated with the destruction of the periodontal ligament are permanent, but vets can still help reduce the chances of systemic disease by cleaning the mouth. We can also help to ensure that your pet's mouth is pain free. We must assume that dental problems are as painful for animals as they are for us- so many of them must just suffer in silence!

Take a look at this picture which shows the same dog as the one above after dental treatment. The teeth are clean and have been polished. This dog must feel so much better!