How to Spot Early Signs of Periodontal Disease in Dogs

Periodontal disease is the most common dental problem experienced by dogs, with a reported prevalence of 80% or higher in canines over 3 years old.

The disease is caused by the buildup of plaque and tartar—a combination of food particles, saliva, and bacteria—which leads to inflammation, infection, and eventual destruction of the tooth's supporting tissues. If left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss and other serious health problems.

In this post, we'll go over on how to spot the early warning signs of periodontal disease in dogs.

 

Bad Breath

Bad breath can be an early warning sign of periodontal disease in dogs. Bad breath may smell like rotting food or even feces—which is one reason why many owners don't realize that their pet has this condition. This is because the root cause of periodontal disease is inflammation caused by plaque buildup on the teeth. So, if your dog's breath smells bad enough to be noticeable, it may be a sign that he's suffering from an underlying medical condition.

 

Tooth Loss

Signs of tooth loss can also be an indication that your dog has periodontal disease. If you notice that one or more of your dog’s teeth are missing, it could be because they have been extracted due to infection from the disease. So, regularly check your dog’s mouth and teeth to see if any are missing. If you notice that your dog is having trouble eating or chewing his food, it could be a sign that he's suffering from tooth loss.

 

Swollen Gums

When gum tissue becomes inflamed and swollen due to plaque buildup, it can become painful and cause discomfort in your pet. The gums may become red, sore, and bleed easily. If you notice that your dog’s mouth is swollen or his gums are bleeding, it could be a sign of periodontal disease.

 

Changes in Eating Habits

Dogs that start to eat less or lose their appetite are often showing signs of periodontal disease. This is because the disease causes the gum tissue to shrink and pull away from the teeth, making it difficult for your dog to eat. The result is that your dog will not want to eat as much, which can lead to other health problems. Best thing to do is take your dog to the veterinarian to rule out any other causes of weight loss before assuming that it is due to periodontal disease. If your dog is diagnosed with this condition, he may need special foods and medications to help him recover from it.

 

Give Your Dog a Lifetime of Good Oral Health

Culebra Creek Veterinary Hospital and Resort is not just another vet clinic—we're a place where families come together to learn how to love their pets better. When it comes to dental concerns for your dogs, we want to make sure that you and your pet are both getting the best care possible.

If you have any questions or concerns about our services, please don't hesitate to book an appointment! Because with our help, your pet will be able to enjoy a lifetime of good oral health.