Like humans, dogs can develop dental cavities (caries) too! Caries in dogs are not specific to any breed and can happen in any size of dog. Although caries can also occur in any tooth, they tend to develop on the occlusal surface of the back cheek teeth (molars), which do the primary chewing.
How Cavities Form in Dogs
Caries manifest from bacteria penetrating the enamel and work to destroy the dentin within the tooth, eventually involving the pulp cavity. When the veterinarian performs an oral exam with a dental probe explorer, the cavity will feel soft and sticky. They form by a process called “inorganic demineralization” of the enamel, which is started by the fermentation of plaque bacteria in the oral cavity.
How Cavities in Humans and Dogs Differ
Cavities in humans are attributed to sugar, while caries in dogs are also attributed to sugars, it comes from the sugars from carbohydrates in the kibble versus candy. Knowing what you’re feeding your pet is important for not only their nutrition but their oral health as well.
Treatment Options
Depending on the progression of the cavity, pulp exposure can occur. The pulp is living tissue on the inner aspect of the tooth. Dental radiographs and cone beam CT imaging allow us to visualize better how the cavity may be affecting the tooth.
Depending on the severity of the cavity, a tooth restoration or extraction therapy may be recommended. If restoration is a possible treatment option, it is important to be referred to a veterinary dental specialist as they have the advanced skill set and equipment to do the treatment.
At-Home Dental Care to Help Prevent Cavities in Dogs
A great way to prevent oral health issues is to keep up with your dog’s oral hygiene. At-home tooth brushing, combined with routine professional cleanings (COHAT), will help maintain good oral health. If there are suspected caries developing, preventative enamel sealant treatments and dietary restrictions will aid in prevention as well. Dry food diets may be preferred over wet food diets as carbohydrate-rich foods help promote the formation of plaque and tend to have more sugar, although each diet may differ in its protein, carbohydrate, and fat content.
Final Thoughts
Our dog’s oral health is important, just like ours. Providing good oral hygiene is the first step in the prevention of any possible oral cavity issues, as well as knowing how certain issues can arise. Setting you and your pet up for success will keep both owner and pet happy.
Should any questions, concerns, or events arise, we are always happy to take a look at your pet and provide treatment if necessary!
Minor and severe cavities affecting the maxillary first molar tooth.
Sources:
The Veterinary Nurse – Causes and prevention of caries (cavities) in dogs
Dental Caries in Small Animals – Digestive System – Merck Veterinary Manual
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (12/27/2024) Image by Anja from Pixabay