How to Examine Dog's Teeth

Performing an examination of your dog's teeth is important to ensuring they are healthy. You can identify any abnormalities by looking for odour or swelling in the mouth. Make sure to look at the back of the mouth as well. Discolored or cracked teeth are also signs of decay.

Discolored Teeth

Discolored dog teeth can be a sign that a dog is suffering from an oral health problem. Many different conditions can lead to the coloration of a dog's teeth. In some cases, these issues are caused by an infection. When this occurs, a vet should be consulted to identify the cause.

Once the cause of discoloration has been determined, the appropriate treatment can be decided. Surgical treatment is generally not recommended, but root canal therapy is an option for some cases. A veterinarian can determine the best treatment for a dog's discolored teeth based on the severity and location of the problem.

Many discoloured teeth in dogs are not painful. Some are simply cosmetic, while others are the result of a dental condition. A discoloured tooth is a sign that the tooth has a problem with its pulp. This can cause pain or other issues. If the discoloration is severe, a veterinarian may perform endodontic treatment to remove the stain and improve the tooth's function. Veneers or crowns may also be used to protect the teeth. Regardless of the cause, treating discolored dog teeth is important to prevent the buildup of plaque and to protect them from further damage. If left untreated, discolored teeth can fracture and cause an abscess.

Broken Teeth

The first step in treating your dog for a broken tooth is a thorough dental exam. Dental radiographs are important to accurately diagnose the problem and recommend the appropriate treatment plan. Dental problems are not always obvious, but if left untreated, broken teeth can result in bone/soft tissue infection and facial swelling. Fortunately, many cases of broken dog teeth can be saved with the proper treatment. However, if the tooth is beyond repair, surgical treatment is the only way to cure it.

In most cases, a veterinary dentist or general practitioner may be able to treat your dog's broken tooth. If you're not sure who to see, contact the American Veterinary Dental College to find a board-certified veterinarian specializing in dentistry. In severe cases, the dentist or vet may choose to perform root canal therapy or extraction.

Rotated Teeth

Rotated dog teeth can lead to serious oral problems. Fortunately, early removal can avoid many of the complications associated with these teeth. While it's never a good idea to pull a dog's teeth, early removal can save your dog pain and the canine tooth from irreversible damage. Here are some of the symptoms and causes of rotated dog teeth.

Rotated dog teeth can also be caused by other issues, such as periodontal disease. This condition occurs when the enamel is not properly mineralized, which can make the teeth appear dull. This condition is also caused by enamel hypoplasia, or a defective formation of the matrix.

Black Spots on Gums

The black spots that you see on your dog's gums can be caused by various causes. While they are most often a result of ink, your vet can also find them from other causes. For example, some dogs develop discolored gums as a result of birth defects or genetics. If you see unraised black spots, consult a vet right away to get an accurate diagnosis.

If your dog has black spots on its gums, it may be a symptom of canine gum disease or even gum cancer. While this is not always a cause for alarm, it is something to watch out for. You can use diagnostic tests to determine what is causing these spots and how to treat it accordingly.

Signs of Periodontal Disease

If you notice your dog has bad breath, it may be a sign of periodontal disease. Bad breath in dogs is not unusual, but it can be a sign of a more serious problem. Fortunately, early detection can prevent further damage and medical issues. It will also help alleviate pain caused by periodontal disease.

The bacteria in your dog's mouth produce a sticky substance called plaque. This plaque sticks to the teeth and combines with the minerals in the saliva. When plaque reaches a certain level, it hardens and becomes called tartar. Your dog's teeth will begin to show signs of tartar at about two years old.

At this stage, there is inflammation of the gums but no damage to the supporting structures of the teeth. Early periodontitis can be cured by professional cleanings and fluoride treatments. However, advanced periodontitis may require extractions.