Dog Mouth Problems Symptoms - Bad breath, Difficulty eating, & Loose teeth

One of the main concerns of dogs mouth and tooth disorders is their tooth. Since domestic dogs are not required to catch and kill their prey for food, over seventy percent of them actually show signs and symptoms of gum diseases by the time they reach four years old.

The common signs and symptoms of mouth and tooth problems are bad breath, dribbling saliva (drooling), and difficulty or reluctant to eat, inflamed gums and loose or broken teeth.

Small dogs such as Poodles and Yorkshire Terriers which have teeth closely packed are more prone to have gum disease when compare to larger breeds like Retrievers. Some breeds like Boxer and Bull Terriers, also suffer from proliferative gum growth. Gum diseases if left untreated will lead to tooth decay. Chip fractures from bone chewing also damage teeth and lead to infection. Without veterinary treatment, removing the damaged teeth is usually the best solution.

Bad breath is usually the first symptom of mouth problems. This is usually cause by bacteria multiplying in food stuck between teeth, followed by tartar building up and then gums infection developing.

Drooling more often than not involves the development of large fluid filled blisters under the tongue. These wounds can be self-inflicted or occurs in fights with other dogs.

Reluctance or difficulties in eating typically involves damaged teeth. Large cavities, root abscesses or a crack in a tooth or skin might just be the cause. Although it is most practical for a vet to remove the tooth that is causing pain, filling is also possible.

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