Our dogs rely on us to keep them happy and healthy. But oral health often gets overlooked in our canine companions. One common dental issue they can experience is a dog tooth infection, which is commonly a result of periodontal disease. If one tooth is infected, there is also a possibility that multiple teeth may be infected.
Daily oral care, such as brushing your dog’s teeth, can help prevent this disease from progressing or even developing in the first place. However, preventative cleaning does not completely eliminate the problem if periodontal disease is already present. Infection can still occur.
So, how can you know if your dog has a tooth infection? It can be difficult because pets don’t typically outwardly show obvious signs of pain. But knowing the following signs and symptoms of a dog tooth infection can help you keep your dog from unnecessary pain and suffering.
Six Symptoms of a Dog Tooth Infection
1. Halitosis (Bad Breath aka oral malodor)
This might be the most noticeable sign of a mouth infection for most dog owners. If your dog has bad breath that seems worse than usual, it can be a sign of tooth infection. Especially if it seems to last over multiple days or weeks without getting better.
Bad breath in dogs is often a sign of an underlying issue, not just “dog breath.” The most common cause is dental disease, where plaque and tartar build up, leading to bacteria growth. Other possible causes include:
- Poor oral hygiene – Lack of regular brushing can lead to periodontal disease.
- Dietary habits – Eating garbage, decomposing animals, or even feces can cause foul breath.
- Kidney or liver disease – If the breath smells like ammonia or is unusually strong, it could indicate organ issues.
- Diabetes – A sweet or fruity breath odor may be a sign of diabetes.
If you have concerns about your dog having consistently bad breath, it is recommended to schedule a vet exam to rule out serious health concerns.
2. Decreased Appetite / Change In Eating Habits
Difficulty Eating is a common cause of a tooth infection. Your dog may chew on one side, drop food, or avoid hard kibble.
If your dog is experiencing oral pain, they may become less interested in eating or start to eat differently than normal. They may eat slower, eat less, or drop food while eating. Keep an eye out for all of these changes in your dog, as they may be a sign of tooth infection. But just because your dog isn’t having any trouble eating doesn’t mean they aren’t in pain. Unfortunately, most dogs continue to eat normally despite having painful problems in the mouth. The desire to eat is a strong biological function regardless of whether or not there is oral pain and infection.
3. Facial or Jaw Swelling
Facial or jaw swelling should be evaluated and treated as soon as you notice it. The teeth that commonly cause facial swelling secondary to infection are the canine and carnassial teeth. Draining tracts may be present as well and often attributed erroneously to a skin problem.
4. Swollen or Red Gums
Infected teeth often cause inflammation, bleeding, or the presence of purulent discharge. Gingivitis, which translates to ‘red gums’ is the first stage of chronic periodontal disease. If left untreated, gingivitis progresses to tooth infection
5. Oral Pain or Discomfort
Dogs do not often outwardly show pain, thanks to their natural instincts that mask signs of pain. In the wild, showing signs of pain can get you thrown out of the pack.
This doesn’t mean that your dog isn’t hurting! But there may be other indicators that your pup is in pain. Other than lack of appetite or a change in eating habits, your dog may act unusually aggressive when you pet or touch their mouth, they may not want to play like they normally do, and they may refuse their favorite chew toys. Some dogs will show increased drooling with oral pain.
6. Lethargy or Behavioral Changes
Pain may make your dog less active or irritable. This is more common as your pet ages. Teeth, like many things in life, need increased maintenance with aging changes.
Dog Oral Health Care in Bozeman, Montana
If you have concerns about your dog’s oral health, call to schedule an appointment with Montana Pet Dentistry & Oral Surgery. Our goal is to provide our patients with a healthy and pain free oral cavity!