3 Signs of Developing Gum Disease in Dogs

Many dog owners love their pets as if they were children. They feed them well, play with them, purchase them toys and even sometimes dress them up. However, many well-meaning owners forget one of the most important aspects of having a pet – keeping them healthy. One of the most common ailments which dogs experience is deterioration of the gums that can negatively impact many aspects of their lives, including simple tasks such as eating or drinking. Almost eighty percent of dogs above the age of three experience issues in his area. There are three main signs which indicate that your dog could be developing gum problems.

Bad breath is common for many dogs. However, abnormally bad breath can be a sign of the beginnings of gum decay. Like with humans, the bacteria left behind in a dog’s mouth can cause bad breath. However, dogs lack the ability to rid themselves of excess food and bacteria, leading to a buildup that turns to plaque and tartar which is harmful to the gums as well as the teeth.

Another common symptom is difficulty chewing or mouth sensitivity. This may often be exhibited alongside red, inflamed gums, the result from a buildup of bacteria and other harmful debris over long periods of time. At this stage of the gum deterioration, preventative care is no longer an option and a dog will often need to visit a veterinarian in order to get the issue under control. This can be extremely uncomfortable for the pet, and should be dealt with right away, lest the pet begun losing its appetite or develop behavioral problems associated with the pain.

A third sign of deteriorating gums is the loss of teeth. Bacterial infections which cause damage to the gums can also interfere with the roots of teeth, causing them to loosen and eventually fall out. A dog’s teeth are essential to their leading a happy and healthy life, and therefore a gum cleaning should be performed far before this stage of decay has been reached. Veterinarians can oftentimes perform this procedure in their offices.

Maintaining the health of a dog’s teeth and gums are paramount to keeping the pet happy and healthy throughout its life with a family. However, many owners do not know the signs which mark the beginnings of gum deterioration, or do not grasp the implications of these symptoms and their possible results. To learn more about how to keep a dog’s gums healthy and pet dental care in Santa Cruz, visit this website.