Recognizing Toothache in Dogs 2/4

Recognizing Toothache in Dogs 2/4

Toothache is not only extremely painful for us humans, our dogs suffer too. The older a dog gets, the greater the likelihood that it will develop a dental problem. And although dogs suffer just as much as we humans do, they are not as good at signaling toothache as they are when it comes to pain in their paws. In the worst case, our four-legged friends suffer in silence for days, weeks or even months.

When the dog no longer wants to eat, or spurns the fun toy or the beloved chew bone, it is time to take a look in the mouth. A sick tooth or inflamed gums can sometimes cause excruciating pain. Some dog breeds are incredibly good at hiding pain, which of course doesn't make it any easier to find the problem. This is exactly why it is important to recognize the signs of toothache in dogs in time so that you can take action quickly.

If dental problems in dogs are not recognized, this can result in years of constant pain. Changes in character and nature are often the first signs of pain. If these changes in character are not due to visible injuries, a diseased tooth should definitely be considered as the cause. A smelly mouth, pus on the teeth or gums also indicate a serious dental problem. In rare cases, inflammation in the ear or eye can also indicate a diseased tooth. In this case, dog owners have a responsibility to act quickly and see a vet.

Dogs depend on our powers of observation. Their teeth and gums should therefore be checked regularly. But that's not all, their teeth and gums should also be cared for regularly. With our With the emmi® -pet ultrasonic toothbrush for dogs, dental care is almost uncomplicated. It is also very effective. Thanks to the latest ultrasonic technology, existing plaque and the bacteria responsible for it are removed quickly and easily. The oral mucosa can regenerate. This in turn results in healthy gums.

In many cases, there is no direct indication that your best friend is suffering from toothache. While some dogs change their eating behavior or stop eating altogether, other dogs show increased biting and chewing behavior. A direct indication here is: If your dog howls when chewing, toothache could be the cause. Even if your best friend puts something in his mouth but immediately drops it again, this could be an indirect indication of dental problems and pain.

Protecting your dog's teeth can also indicate dental problems. Especially if one side of the teeth or jaw is visibly protected, it is time to take a closer look into the mouth.

As with humans, you should always investigate toothache in dogs. It is not only undetected dental problems that can lead to serious secondary diseases. Chronic inflammation in the jaw area can also lead to serious diseases. If, for example, a tooth root infection remains undetected, the inflammation can spread along the jaw bone. Bacteria can spread throughout the entire body and even cause damage to the kidneys and heart.

Unfortunately, plaque, the precursor to tartar, is not uncommon; tartar often leads to an infected tooth. Lost teeth or foreign bodies such as splinters of wood can also cause inflammation. Rotten teeth are often discolored blue, while caries is noticeable as black spots on the tooth. A broken tooth with an open pulp not only causes great pain, but also makes it easier for bacteria to enter the bloodstream.

The sooner you start treating your dog's teeth, the sooner your dog will be free of pain. This approach also saves a lot of money, as secondary diseases often do not occur. The best way to prevent them is with efficient and regular oral hygiene. In particular, consistent action against dental diseases, ideally with an ultrasonic toothbrush that has been specially designed for dogs, pays off in the long term.

How do you recognize toothache in dogs?

In the last part of our two-part series "How to recognize toothache in your dog" we reported that toothache often goes undetected. In today's blog post we explain how you can check your dog yourself and give you helpful tips to recognize toothache in your dog as quickly as possible.

Recognizing symptoms as an indication of toothache in dogs

General behavioral changes that indicate suffering in the jaw area include, for example, refusal to eat, reduced food intake, a suffering and sad look, quiet moaning, squeaking or even whining and howling, tiredness , listlessness, dejection and a lack of joy in life.

Specific behavioral changes that indicate dental problems include increased salivation. You should check the teeth especially if your dog does not want to eat or spits out the food. Sticky fur in the mouth area and one-sided chewing can also be seen as signs of toothache. If you notice a crooked head position when chewing or even chattering of the teeth, all alarm bells should ring.

Constant head shaking and rubbing the nose on the carpet, a wall or a piece of furniture can also be signs that your four-legged friend is suffering in silence. Noticeable scratching of the nose or lips, as well as fits of rubbing the head, can also be considered signs of toothache.

First Signs of Toothache in Dogs

If your dog 's mouth smells unpleasant - for no apparent reason - or if one tooth is different from the others, these could be the first signs of serious dental problems. If there are signs of damaged teeth, such as broken areas or fracture lines, if plaque and tartar have formed, if yellow deposits or brownish discoloration are visible, accompanied by red and swollen gums, assume that your dog has dental problems and is certainly in pain in these areas.

Bleeding and receding gums, as well as a reddened transition area between the gums and the teeth, also indicate a dental problem. Bleeding from the mouth and unpleasant bad breath do not only occur in cases of severe suppuration in the jaw area. Inflammation in the eye area and purulent nasal discharge are also possible. The purulent nasal discharge often only occurs on one side.

Signs of Dental Problems in Puppies

Dental problems are particularly common in puppies. As a result of the change of teeth and teething, it is possible that teeth do not fall out and lead to massive problems. Tooth fractures and malocclusions are also frequently diagnosed in puppies. In order to get a good overview of your dog's teeth, we recommend regular dental care with our emmi ^® - pet ultrasonic toothbrush.

dental problems with a history

Many dental problems have a history. For example, if your dog had difficulty retrieving before the dental problem, a tooth fracture could be the cause of the dental problem. The risk of a tooth fracture increases in connection with wood. Chewed objects or hard objects can also lead to massive trauma to the teeth and gums. A broken tooth or a misalignment in the teeth can also cause severe pain.

Regular dental inspection by the dog owner

Since toothache is often not visible but only felt and broken teeth can even radiate to other areas of the mouth, diagnosing toothache is not always easy. This makes it all the more important that you prepare your dog for regular dental inspections. Create a relaxed atmosphere. The best place for the dog to lie is on its side. Speak to your dog in a friendly manner. While doing this, casually lift its lips. If your dog shows no tension or stress, you can continue this exercise on the other side.