3 Common Dog Tooth Issues

Just like your own teeth, your dog's teeth require an ample amount of care, lest they fall into disrepair. In fact, it is recommended that you make an appointment to have your dog's teeth cleaned on an annual basis. Here are some of the most common issues that can befall a canine's oral hygiene. Some of these issues will sound quite familiar!

Root Abcess

This occurs when a dog's tooth becomes cracked or otherwise damaged or their gums become infected. This can allow the root of the tooth to become exposed to bacteria that it otherwise would have been protected from. One of the most common signs that your dog is suffering from an abcessed tooth is that he or she is having difficulty eating. The dog may be slowly chewing his or her food or simply avoiding eating altogether. After time, your dog's jaw may swell a bit. It is important to take your pet to a vet's office as soon as possible, due to the fact that this is a painful issue. The tooth will likely be extracted and antibiotics prescribed to your pet to prevent infection.

Deciduous Teeth

For the first eight months of your dog's life, he or she will lose their deciduous teeth, much like a human does over the course of several years. However, some problems can arise during this time. First and foremost, check your puppy's mouth on a weekly basis to make sure that the teeth are coming in a healthy manner. One of the most common problems that occurs during this time is that the adult tooth will begin growing while the puppy tooth is still in place. Get your pup to a vet's office if this issue doesn't resolve itself, as it can create a litany of mouth trauma issues, including periodontal disease.

Tooth Cracks

Your dog's teeth are very strong. Dog teeth are meant to be able to withstand chewing on many hard objects. This doesn't mean they are indestructible, however. Make sure you keep a close eye on what your dog chews on, or things that he or she may be liable to chew on. Never give your dog completely solid objects to gnaw upon nor objects that are hollow and brittle – like bird bones. Make sure that the chew toys you supply your dog with are nice and flexible. There are a number of ways that your vet can correct a damaged tooth if discovered. Vital pulpotomy, a root canal, and extraction of the entirety of the tooth are all options that can be explored.

For more information on dog dental health, talk to a professional like Brian E Hall.