27/06/2025
As you can imagine, given that pets don’t brush their teeth 🦷 every day (but owners should brush pets’ teeth if they are able to!), dental disease is common in older pets. 🐶 🐱 🐾 Your primary vet should see your seniors at least twice a year if possible! If signs of dental disease are evident, your pet may need to be anesthetized for safe, pain-free cleaning (including above the gumline, not just a cosmetic cleaning of the visible tooth crown), comprehensive evaluation including dental-specific radiographs and gently probing gingival pocket depths, and skillful removal of diseased or painful teeth.
There are several signs that your pet may be experiencing dental pain. Some of the most common signs include:
1. Difficulty eating or chewing food, chewing on only one side 🥣
2. Drooling excessively
3. Bad breath 😷
4. Swollen or bleeding gums
5. Loose or missing teeth
6. Pawing at the mouth or face 🐾
7. Avoiding hard or crunchy foods
8. Changes in behavior, such as becoming more irritable or lethargic 😴 😠
If you notice any of these signs, it's important to take your pet to the veterinarian for a dental exam. Dental pain can be a sign of serious dental problems, such as periodontal disease or tooth decay, which can lead to other health issues if left untreated.
