7 Common Dental Problems in Dogs

Dental concerns are not uncommon in dogs. They can range from congenital to acquired to trauma. Some dental pathologies can significantly impact dogs’ overall health if left untreated. Common dental problems seen in dogs are outlined below.

1. Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is the most common dental problem in dogs and begins with plaque buildup. Over 72 hours, plaque will mineralize into calculus (tartar). If plaque and tartar are not addressed, it will lead to inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) and progress to more severe issues affecting the teeth and supporting structures. Symptoms of periodontal disease include the following:

• Oral malodor
• Red and bleeding gums
• Mobile teeth
• Challenges eating
• General oral discomfort
• Drooling

2. Tooth Root Abscess

Abscessed tooth roots are a form of periodontal disease and may start with a tooth fracture. Any tooth can become infected; however, the maxillary fourth premolar teeth (carnassial teeth) are a common site of occurrence. Symptoms of a tooth root abscess include the following: 

• Oral malodor
• Facial swelling
• Decreased interest in food.
• Oral pain
• Possible discharge from the site of facial swelling. 

3. Tooth Fractures

Trauma happens, and dogs can indeed fracture their teeth. The teeth that are particularly prone to trauma include the canine and carnassial teeth. The most common cause of a fractured tooth is chewing on a hard object, such as bones, antlers, rawhides, and Nyla bones. Altercations with other animals can also lead to tooth trauma. Dogs in kennels may often damage the back region of their canine tooth due to biting at kennel bars. A fractured tooth may be noticeable as a crack or chips in the teeth. Symptoms of a broken tooth include the following:

• Oral malodor
• Oral Pain
• Reluctance to eat, especially within the first few days after the trauma
• Drooling
• Dropping food and toys

4. Malocclusion (Misaligned Teeth)

Misaligned teeth can be congenital or develop due to trauma. They can cause difficulty in chewing and increase the risk of periodontal disease. Malocclusions include the following:

1. Class 1 malocclusion—The maxilla and mandibular are appropriately sized for the mouth to open and close easily, but one or more teeth are in an abnormal position creating asymmetry.
2. Class 2 malocclusion—This malocclusion is commonly referred to as an overbite and is often congenital. The maxilla is longer than the mandibles. A class 2 malocclusion is seen more frequently in dogs with a longer muzzle, such as German shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, and Doodles. Treatment is almost always warranted for this type of malocclusion. 
3. Class 3 malocclusion. This malocclusion is commonly referred to as an underbite. It is seen commonly in dogs with a shorter muzzle, such as bulldogs, Shih-tzus, French bulldogs, and Boston Terriers. It is considered a breed standard for certain breeds and may not require treatment.

5. Persistent Deciduous Teeth

Deciduous teeth are primary teeth, also referred to as baby teeth. Occasionally, baby teeth do not fall out on their own, which can cause problems with the alignment of adult teeth and lead to tartar buildup and subsequent periodontal disease. Persistent deciduous teeth are much more common in small-breed dogs than in medium and large-breed dogs. Symptoms of persistent deciduous teeth include the following:

• Crowded teeth
• Oral malodor

6. Oral Tumors

Tumors can develop in the mouth and may be benign or malignant. Oral tumors account for 6% of tumors that occur in dogs. Up to 45% of oral tumors may be malignant, meaning they can metastasize or spread to additional regions of the body. Early detection and treatment are crucial for the best prognosis.

Symptoms of oral tumors include the following:

• Oral malodor
• Oral bleeding,
• Difficulty eating
• Drooling
• Oral discomfort
• Weight loss

7. Oral Ulcerative Disease

Inflammation of the mucous membranes in the mouth can be very painful and is often associated with immune system issues. Different classifications of oral ulcerative disease exist, and a biopsy is warranted for a specific diagnosis. Common Symptoms of oral ulcerative disease include the following:

• Oral malodor (significant)
• Red and swollen gums
• Ulcers in the mouth
• Drooling
• Reluctance to eat.

Dog Dentist in Bozeman, Montana

Additional oral conditions can occur and adversely affect a dog’s quality of life. Providing daily oral home care to the best of your ability and monitoring for signs of dental issues can help diagnose and treat dental problems early. Occasionally, lower GI disease can minimize signs of oral disease. An exam with your primary care veterinarian or with us at Montana Pet Dentistry and Oral Surgery will aid in identifying the primary concerns. At Montana Pet Dentistry and Oral Surgery, we believe every pet should have a pain-free and comfortable mouth. Please reach out if you think your dog has a dental problem.

 

 

Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (6/18/2024). Photo by Bruce Warrington on Unsplash