Top Warning Signs of Dental Disease in Pets That Pet Owners Overlook

 Most pet parents are likely to be keen on the behavior of their dog or cat, whether he or she eats, plays, or cuddles. But there is one thing that most owners fail to consider inadvertently: dental health. As a matter of fact, dental disease is one of the most prevalent health problems in pets, yet it is also one of the most neglected.

Most individuals believe that bad breath is natural or that pets tend to eat more slowly with old age. Nonetheless, minor alterations, e.g., drooling, chewing on the face, or refusal of solid food, are usually signs of more serious issues. Adequate dental care of pets is not only about keeping their teeth clean but can also help to avoid infection, pain, and other health complications in the long term.

We are going to discuss the red flags that pet owners tend to ignore and why it is important to notice such signs as soon as possible to influence the well-being of your pet.

What Causes Dental Disease in Pets?

The onset of the dental disease in dogs and cats is usually characterized by the presence of plaque. Gradually, the plaque becomes hardened in the form of tartar, which irritates the gums and causes periodontal disease. When left unattended, it may even spread to the teeth, gums, and even internal organs.

That is why regular dental care for dogs and cats is very crucial, particularly in areas such as Norco, where many pet owners have to cope with hectic schedules and may overlook initial symptoms. Pets require dental treatment the same way as human beings do, or even more.

1. Persistent Bad Breath (Halitosis)

The first, and most evident, would be bad breath. However, most owners believe that the pets merely have dog breath or cat breath. As a matter of fact, persistent bad breath normally indicates an increase in the growth of bacteria in the mouth.

Why This Matters

  • It may also signify periodontal disease.

  • It can be an indication of infections under the gums.

  • In extreme cases, the liver, kidney, or heart may be impacted.

If you are a local resident, you can get your pet to the pet dentist specialist in Norco regularly, and professional cleanings and examinations can identify such problems early.

2. Drooling More Than Usual

Drooling is not a dog-only thing. Yes, certain breeds just drool more. However, when drooling is sudden or excessive, it is a red flag of pain in the mouth.

What It Could Mean

  • Gum irritation

  • Oral ulcers

  • A fractured or infected tooth.

When your dog or cat starts to leave wet spots everywhere, that is a red flag.

3. Pawing at the Mouth or Face

This is among the symptoms that have been strongly overlooked. It could be due to their pet pawing their face because:

  • Something hurts.

  • A tooth is loose.

  • Food is stuck.

  • They have swollen gums.

Cats are masters of concealing pain. Reiteration of face-touching will be considered serious.

4. Eating Slowly or Dropping Food While Chewing

A pet that used to chew zealously and now is afraid to eat may have some kind of discomfort in the mouth.

Possible Causes

  • Gingivitis

  • Worn or damaged teeth

  • Oral tumors

  • Pain during chewing

Reduced speed of eating is not necessarily due to old age. The damage can be avoided over time with early dental intervention.

5. Swollen or Bleeding Gums

Gums are not to be red or bleeding, but rather, pink. Bleeding of gums is a common indication of early gum disease, particularly after eating or biting toys.

Look For

  • Dark red gum line

  • Bleeding after chewing

  • Pain on palpating the mouth.

Professional assessment, including animal dental care and oral surgery, will be necessary here to identify the magnitude of the problem.

6. Yellow or Brown Tartar Buildup

This is among the most indicative of dental neglect. Tartar may also cause gums to swell, exposing teeth to the pockets, which allow bacteria to proliferate.

Otherwise, this may result in losing teeth and severe infections.

7. Behavior Change or Irritability.

Pain often changes behavior. Pets might:

  • Avoid being touched.

  • Refuse to play.

  • Bark when the mouth is touched.

  • Become unusually quiet.

Most of the owners will assume this to be moodiness or old age, yet it may be dental pain they are attempting to express.

8. Visible Tooth Damage or Loose Teeth

Loose or broken teeth are severe symptoms of developed dental disease. They must be addressed right now, and that needs to be done by a pet dental specialist in Norco, one who may see if their teeth need to be extracted or fixed.

Common Causes

  • Untreated gum disease.

  • Chewing of hard objects.

  • Infections under the gums.

When to See a Veterinary Dental Specialist

When your pet starts to show any of the above-mentioned signs, in particular, bleeding gums, eating difficulties, or the presence of tartar, you need to seek professional assistance. Certain patients would need complicated treatments like deep cleaning, extractions, or oral surgery, which should be done by a specialist.

Conclusion

Problems with the mouth are a common beginning, but can easily deteriorate to other parts of your pet.

Atlas Pet Hospital can help you with your dental care for pets or with any of the mentioned signs that you have noticed. We provide high-quality dental services to pets, specialist support of pet dentistry in Norco, and high-tech treatment assistance from experienced specialists.
Location: Norco, CA, USA

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