Cavities in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Dogs can build up plaque very similar to humans and have identical tooth problems that can develop into cavities. Eventually, the tooth dies, the bone around it will become infected, and the dog will suffer from excruciating pain. If left untreated, this can lead to a more severe health issue.

Learning about the causes, symptoms, and treatment methods can help you take care of your pup in the long run.

 

Causes

Plaque and tartar build-up on your dog’s teeth is the primary cause of cavities. Plaque and tartar build-up can lead to bacteria growth, leading to tooth decay. Aside from not regularly cleaning your dog's teeth, a few other things can cause tooth decay.

For example, there’s a chance your dog could swallow food that contains sugar or carbohydrates. This causes plaque to stick to their teeth and creates an environment for bacteria growth, leading to tooth decay. Also, poor general health can cause poor oral health as well. If your dog isn’t getting the proper nutrition from his food, he may have a hard time fighting off bacteria that causes tooth decay.

Therefore, it’s important to ensure your dog is eating the best food possible. This will ensure that he has all the nutrients and minerals he needs for a robust immune system which will help fight off bacteria growth in his mouth.

 

Symptoms

Neglecting your dog’s oral health can result in a wide range of symptoms. Some common signs of an oral problem include bad breath, bleeding gums or mouth sores, difficulty eating, lethargy, and weight loss. This can all be caused by a variety of things, including tooth decay, periodontal disease, and even tumors in the mouth. If you notice any of these symptoms or want to ensure that your dog’s oral health is at its best, make an appointment with your vet immediately.

 

Treatment

Cavities in dogs can all be prevented by regular brushing, diet, and dental checkups. If your dog has a cavity, your vet will likely recommend one of the following treatments:

• Brush your dog’s teeth regularly, at least twice daily, with an enzymatic toothpaste designed for dogs.
• Give your dog chew toys that help scrape away plaque, such as a bully stick or chewable toy.
• A proper diet is an important part of your dog’s dental health. It’s best to feed him a diet with no sugar or starches, such as dry kibble or canned food. If you give your dog treats and bones, ensure they don’t have any sugar in them either.
• Regularly scheduled yearly checkups at the vet can help ensure that your dog enjoys good dental health throughout his or her lifetime.

 

Your Dog’s Dental Health Matters at Eldorado Animal Clinic

Taking care of your dog’s dental health is not something you should take lightly. By making sure your dog is getting regular cleanings and checkups, you can ensure that he or she stays healthy for years to come.

At Eldorado Animal Clinic, we have state-of-the-art equipment and highly capable staff to assist you with anything your companion may need. You can come to us with any concerns, and we would be more than happy to help you. Keeping your pet healthy is also essential in maintaining their mental health, and our vets can help you with that.

Don't stress your pet out with second-rate veterinarians; book an appointment with us for more details!