We are advised to brush our teeth twice a day, floss regularly, and visit a dentist at least once a year. Why? Because we dread the dentist’s drill, and we will do everything to keep those nasty cavities making holes away from us.
We know the importance of their oral hygiene and how tough it is to maintain them when it comes to pets! Even though the cavities are not the first thing you need to worry about, they are not the last.
Approximately 80% of doggos have periodontal disease till they reach three, but only 5 percent of canine owners turn up because their dogs show signs of pain.
Cavities in pets are possible, and you need to contact pet dental care near you to keep their teeth and gums healthy!
Cavities in Canines:
Dental caries occur in less than 10 percent of dogs. Cavities occur when a dog has many salivary pHs that have the perfect environment to inhibit the bacteria from forming from the food leftovers in the mouth. The acidic reaction wears down the enamel, which causes the development of painful caries.
Feline odontoclastic resorption lesions (FORLs):
Instead of developing cavities, the cats develop holes in their teeth caused by tooth resorption (a progressive disease where the tooth structure breaks down). The FORL’s are situated below the gum line, which causes extreme pain and difficulty in swallowing.
Advanced Dental Problems:
Probably your pet wouldn’t tell you of any tooth issue they are suffering from because their animal instinct doesn’t allow them to. Still, when the oral health issues become advanced, they might become distinctly visible.
- Blood marks on their chewy toys.
- Bloody gums
- Bloody saliva
- Your pet hesitating when you touch their head
- Unable to pick food with ease
- Chewing from one side of the mouth
- Creaky, painful sound when they eat or chew something
- Nasal discharge due to bone loss between nasal and oral cavity.
- Hanging teeth
- Small lumps in the mouth
Plaque formation and tissue destruction:
Plaque is formed by saliva, food debris, and sloughed cells. Since it’s not easy to brush your dog’s teeth regularly, the plaque thickens from not brushing every day, and then the bacteria multiply.
With the increase in Bacteria, it becomes difficult for your pet to open its mouth. In addition, the combined action of the mobilized cells and bacteria causes inflammation and tissue destruction in your canine mouth.
Taking care of your pet’s teeth:
- See if your pet’s teeth are discolored or hanging loose.
- Check for the mouth odor, especially if it returns after 2-3 months of cleaning.
- See if there is swelling on one side of the mouth but not the other.
- Pet’s can get accustomed to cleaning if you follow the care routine with patience and commitment. However, if they still show signs of resistance, then it can be a matter of concern.
- It might be very rare, but if your pet denies his usual favorite treats, it’s a sign.
- Observe the sound while he chews his food.
Your pooch might be in pain, and no matter how macho they pretend to be, it hurts. Talk to the pet dental care near you and seek an appointment for a non-anesthesia treatment immediately!
