Did you know 4 out of 5 dogs develop dental disease by age 3 (bennettrdvet)?🐶 Sadly, most pet parents miss the clues until it’s too late.
The good news? You don’t need a vet degree to spot trouble early.
Let’s discover the sneaky symptoms of dental issues you can check at home—and how to protect your pup’s pearly whites.
10 signs of oral disease in dogs
1. Bad Breath (Foul Odor from the Mouth)
Bad breath isn’t just stinky—it’s a bacterial red flag. When plaque builds up, those germs throw a party in your dog’s mouth, releasing sulfur compounds (think rotten eggs). If your pup’s breath smells like a dumpster, it’s time to act.
Vet Advice:
“Halitosis is often the first sign of gum disease arising from plaque (biofilm) and tartar build-up,” says Dr. Tammy Hunter (DVM). “Don’t ignore it—early intervention saves teeth.”
What to Do:
- Brush their teeth 3x/week (use dog-safe toothpaste!).
- Ask your vet about dental chews or water additives to reduce plaque.
- Use dental care products to reduce plaque formation.
2. Red, Swollen, or Bleeding Gums
Healthy gums should be pink and smooth (like bubblegum). Red, puffy, or bleeding gums? That’s gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease (westgatevet). Left unchecked, it can lead to tooth loss and jawbone damage.
DIY Check:
Gently lift your dog’s lips. If their gums look like they’ve been smacked with a strawberry, call your vet. Check out our blog to learn what your dog’s gum color tells you about its health.
3. Yellow or Brown Teeth (Tartar & Plaque Buildup)
Plaque is that sticky film you feel on your teeth after coffee. In dogs, it hardens into tartar (yellow/brown gunk) within days. Tartar is a playground for bacteria that eat away at the enamel.
Fix It Fast:
Regular brushing and professional cleanings help prevent tartar accumulation. Providing safe dental chews can also help remove soft plaque naturally.
4. Difficulty Eating or Chewing
If your dog drops food while eating or hesitates to chew, they may have dental pain. They might also avoid hard treats or chew toys due to sore teeth or gums.
Quick Test:
Offer a chew toy or a hard treat like yak chew. If they hesitate or favor one side, dental pain could be the issue.
5. Excessive Drooling
Some breeds drool 24/7 (we see you, Saint Bernards). But if your tidy pup starts slobbering excessively (especially thick or smelly saliva), it can signal mouth pain or a foreign object stuck in the teeth.
6. Face Rubbing or Pawing at the Mouth
Dogs can’t say, “Hey, my molar hurts,” so they scratch or rub their face to relieve discomfort from a toothache or gum irritation.
Red Alert:
If paired with swelling, it could signal an abscess (a nasty infection that needs urgent care).
7. Skipping Meals or Weight Loss
A sudden refusal to eat or unexplained weight loss can signal dental pain. If eating becomes too painful, dogs may avoid it altogether, leading to serious health issues.
Try This:
Soften their kibble with warm water or switch to wet food temporarily. Then, call your vet!
8. Loose or Missing Teeth
Adult dogs should not have loose teeth (psda). While senior dogs have mild loseness, sudden loose or missing teeth, this could indicate severe dental disease. Advanced gum infections can cause teeth to fall out, leading to further complications.
Did You Know?
Small breeds (like Chihuahuas) are prone to dental disease due to crowded teeth.
9. Swelling Around the Mouth or Jaw
Swelling in the mouth, under the eyes, or along the jawline can be a sign of an abscessed tooth or severe gum infection. This requires immediate veterinary attention to prevent complications.
10. Changes in Behavior Due to Dental Pain
Pain can make dogs irritable, lethargic, or even aggressive. If your normally happy pup becomes snappy, avoids being touched near its mouth, or acts withdrawn, dental pain might be the cause.
5 Effective Ways to Prevent Dental Issues in Dogs
1. Brush Your Dog’s Teeth (1-2 Times a Week)
- Use a soft-bristle dog toothbrush and enzymatic toothpaste (never human products, which contain toxic xylitol).
- Start slow: Let your dog lick the paste, then gradually brush for 30 seconds per side.
2. Provide Dental Chews & Toys
Chewing helps remove plaque naturally. Yak chews, dental sticks, and raw carrots are great long-lasting options for maintaining oral hygiene.
3. Schedule Vet Checkups
Annual dental exams can catch early signs of disease before they become severe. Vets spot hidden issues via X-rays and professional cleanings.
4. Use Dental Water Additives & Sprays
VOHC-accepted water additives or enzymatic dental sprays can reduce bacteria in your dog’s mouth. Always follow your vet’s guidance for safe use.
5. Monitor Your Dog’s Mouth
Regularly check for signs of dental issues. Early detection means easier (and less expensive) treatment.
What are the stages of dental disease in dogs?
Dental disease in dogs progresses in four stages:
- Stage 1 - Gingivitis: Mild inflammation, redness, and plaque buildup.
- Stage2- Early Periodontitis: Increased plaque and tartar, minor bone loss, and swollen gums.
- Stage 3 - Moderate Periodontitis: Gum recession, pain, infection, and significant bone loss.
- Stage 4 - Advanced Periodontitis: Severe infection, tooth loss, abscesses, and possible systemic health issues.
Can untreated dental disease lead to other health problems?
Yes! According to awcbvet, bacteria from gum infections can spread to vital organs, increasing the risk of heart, kidney, and liver disease. Once in the bloodstream, these bacteria can cause systemic infections, impacting overall health. Chronic dental pain can also lead to stress, appetite loss, and behavioral changes.
Final Thoughts
Your dog’s dental health is just as important as their overall well-being. By staying proactive and checking for these warning signs at home, you can help prevent painful dental diseases and costly vet visits. A happy mouth means a happy pup!