Tooth loss and bad breath can be distressing issues for dogs and their owners. A dogs’s teeth and oral health provide vital functions like chewing, biting, and eating. When teeth start to loosen and fall out, it can negatively impact a dog’s quality of life.
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, periodontal disease is the most common clinical condition in dogs affect over 80% of dogs by the age of three. ([1]) It’s critical for dog owners to monitor their dog’s dental health and understand the causes, signs, dangers and treatments for dogs losing teeth and experiencing bad breath.
[1] https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare/pet-dental-care
Common Causes of Tooth Loss
There are several common reasons why dogs may lose their teeth:
- Periodontal disease – This inflammatory condition is the most common cause of tooth loss in dogs. It occurs when plaque and tartar buildup leads to infection and receding gums, eventually causing teeth to loosen and fall out. Periodontal disease usually affects older dogs but can happen at any age. https://bluepet.com/blog/loose-teeth-in-dogs/
- Injury or trauma – Dogs can lose teeth from traumatic events like being hit by a car, falling, or chewing on hard objects. Fractured teeth may need to be extracted by a vet. Injuries are a common cause of tooth loss in younger dogs.
- Genetics – Some breeds like Yorkshire Terriers are prone to early tooth loss or having missing teeth. This is thought to be due to their smaller jaw size.
- Cancer – Tumors in the mouth, jaws, or surrounding areas can lead to tooth loss in dogs. Oral melanoma and oral squamous cell carcinoma are the most common oral cancers in dogs.
- Developmental disorders – Issues with tooth development can result in dogs losing teeth prematurely or teeth not erupting properly.
No matter the underlying cause, tooth loss in dogs should always be evaluated by a veterinarian to determine the best treatment.
Signs Your Dog is Losing Teeth
Some common signs that indicate your dog may be losing teeth include:
- Visible missing teeth – You may notice gaps in your dog’s mouth where teeth are obviously missing.
- Bleeding gums – Inflammation and bleeding at the gumline can signify dental issues.
- Bad breath – Persistent bad breath or a worsening of bad breath can point to tooth loss.
- Difficulty eating – Your dog may show signs of pain or difficulty chewing hard food. You may see them dropping food from their mouth.
- Behavioral changes – Dental pain can cause changes in behavior like irritability, increased aggression, or withdrawal.
- Excessive drooling – Drooling more than normal, especially with blood, indicates an oral issue.
- Facial swelling – Swelling around the mouth/jaws can accompany dental disease.
- Nasal discharge – Tooth root abscesses can lead to nasal discharge.
According to veterinarians, the most obvious sign is visibly missing teeth, but often dental disease progresses unseen until other symptoms arise. Bleeding from the gums or bad breath are key warnings. If your dog exhibits any of these signs, examine their mouth carefully for missing, loose, or damaged teeth. Schedule a veterinary dental exam if tooth loss or oral discomfort is apparent (Source).
Dangers of Tooth Loss
Tooth loss can pose serious dangers for dogs if left untreated. According to PetMD, gum disease from tooth loss allows bacteria to enter the bloodstream, potentially leading to damage in major organs like the heart, kidneys and liver. Tooth loss also increases the risk of painful mouth infections. As teeth fall out, the underlying bone is exposed, which can deteriorate over time. This bone loss causes loose teeth which can be painful and lead to injuries or choking if teeth are swallowed.
Tooth loss impacts a dog’s ability to eat and chew properly. It can lead to malnutrition and weight loss if a dog has trouble eating due to missing teeth and discomfort. The changes to a dog’s mouth and deterioration of oral health from tooth loss can also cause significant pain and impact their quality of life if left untreated. Regular dental care and prompt treatment for tooth loss are essential for protecting dogs against these dangers.
Preventing Tooth Loss
There are several ways pet owners can help prevent tooth loss in dogs. The most important is establishing a regular oral hygiene routine. Daily brushing removes plaque and tartar that can lead to gum disease, the main cause of tooth loss. Use a soft bristle toothbrush and dog-safe toothpaste. Take it slow and make it a positive experience with praise and treats. There are flavors dogs enjoy like poultry and beef.
Special dental treats and chews are another way to clean teeth and massage gums. Look for the Veterinary Oral Health Council seal of acceptance. Products like Greenies and OraVet chews help scrape away plaque. Give chews under supervision and be sure to select the right size and texture for your dog.
Professional dental cleanings by a vet go deeper than brushing to fully remove tartar below the gumline. Cleanings every 6-12 months based on your dog’s needs help keep teeth and gums healthy. Extractions of severely damaged teeth may be needed to prevent infection.
A healthy diet is important too. Crunchy kibble helps scrape teeth clean. Avoid sugary foods that allow bacteria to thrive. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water also helps wash away food particles.
Treating Tooth Loss
There are several treatment options for dogs that have lost or are losing teeth. Some common treatments include:
Tooth extractions: Extracting loose or infected teeth is often necessary to prevent further dental issues. Extractions can be performed while the dog is under anesthesia during a professional dental cleaning (source).
Root canals: For teeth that could potentially be saved, a vet may perform a root canal procedure. This involves removing diseased pulp tissue and disinfecting the root canal system (source). A crown is then placed over the tooth.
Crowns: These dental restorations protect damaged teeth and improve their appearance. The crown covers the entire visible portion of the tooth.
Medications: Antibiotics may be prescribed to treat any infections associated with tooth loss. Anti-inflammatory medication can help manage pain.
Tooth extraction is the most common and effective treatment for advanced tooth loss and disease in dogs. Other procedures like root canals and crowns can save damaged teeth in some cases. Medications help control infections and discomfort.
Managing Bad Breath
Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is a common issue in dogs that can have several underlying causes. The most common cause of bad breath in dogs is periodontal disease, which is inflammation and infection of the tissues surrounding the teeth. Periodontal disease is caused by plaque buildup on the teeth from lack of adequate dental care. Bacteria in the plaque produce foul-smelling gases that cause breath odor.
Other potential causes of bad breath in dogs include:
- Foreign objects lodged in the mouth
- Kidney or liver disease
- Respiratory or sinus infections
- Diabetes
- Gastrointestinal issues
To manage bad breath, dental cleanings and dental care are very important. Regular tooth brushing, ideally daily, can help reduce plaque buildup. There are a variety of dog-safe toothpastes and toothbrushes designed for dog dental hygiene. Annual cleanings at the vet are also recommended.
Certain dental diets and dental treats can also help control plaque. These are formulated to mechanically scrape plaque off teeth as the dog chews. There are also some dog mouthwashes and oral rinses that can help freshen breath when used regularly. Natural remedies like yogurt with probiotics, turmeric, and coconut oil may also help with mild bad breath. But severe halitosis requires veterinary dental cleanings and treatment.
Left untreated, bad breath can indicate serious dental disease. Taking steps to brush your dog’s teeth and control plaque is the best way to prevent stinky dog breath. But if bad breath persists, consult your veterinarian to rule out underlying illness. With proper dental care and disease treatment, foul odors can be managed for cleaner, fresher dog breath.
Caring for Dogs with Missing Teeth
Losing teeth can drastically impact a dog’s quality of life. Owners of dogs missing teeth need to make adjustments to diet, manage pain, and avoid injury to keep their dogs healthy and comfortable.
One of the biggest changes is transitioning to softer foods that are easier to chew and swallow. Soaking dry kibble in warm water or broth helps soften it up. Canned wet food is another good option. You can also try blending their regular food with broth into a soup consistency. It may take some trial and error to find foods your toothless dog can manage. Feeding smaller, more frequent meals can help ensure they get adequate nutrition.
Missing teeth can also cause oral discomfort. Regularly inspect your dog’s gums and provide pain medication as prescribed by your vet. Using ramps and steps can make it easier for your dog to get around and avoid falls or injury, especially for older dogs who may have arthritis. With some adjustments, dogs can adapt well to life without teeth and continue to lead happy, comfortable lives. But be sure to monitor them closely and seek veterinary care if you notice signs of deteriorating health.
Source: How To Care for A Senior Dog with No Teeth
When to See the Vet
While some tooth loss and bad breath can be managed at home, there are certain signs that warrant a visit to the veterinarian:
- Bleeding from the mouth or gums – This could signal advanced periodontal disease, an abscess, or oral tumor. Any bleeding merits an urgent vet visit. 3 Urgent Signs You Need to Take Your Dog to a Vet
- Swelling around the mouth – Swelling or redness of the gums or face are abnormal and indicate infection or inflammation needing veterinary attention.
- Loss of appetite – If your dog stops eating or has difficulty chewing because of mouth pain, see the vet promptly as appetite loss can quickly become dangerous.
- Loose teeth – While some looseness is expected with age, a very loose tooth that seems to be hanging by a thread or falling out easily needs to be evaluated by a vet. The tooth root may be abscessed.
- Discolored or fractured teeth – Cracks, chips, discoloration or other damage to teeth should be examined to assess any underlying issues and prevent further problems.
- Difficulty eating – If your dog is dropping food, reluctant to chew, or cries when biting down, dental issues could be the cause. Have your vet investigate.
- Lethargy or personality changes – Subtle changes in behavior like reduced energy or playfulness may indicate your dog is in oral discomfort or pain. Don’t ignore these cues.
At the first signs of dental disease, schedule a veterinary dental exam. Early treatment can help prevent worsening problems.
Conclusion
In conclusion, dental health is incredibly important for dogs and should not be neglected. Poor dental health can lead to tooth loss, gum disease, infections, and other health complications. Some of the key points to remember include:
- Regularly brushing your dog’s teeth and providing dental chews can help reduce plaque buildup and prevent issues.
- Annual veterinary dental cleanings are recommended once your dog is around 3 years old.
- Signs of dental disease include bad breath, loose teeth, bleeding gums, pain, and discolored teeth.
- Untreated dental disease puts your dog at risk for heart, liver and kidney disease.
- If your dog loses multiple teeth, switching to wet food or adding water to kibble can make eating easier.
- Missing teeth can lead to discomfort, trouble eating and self-esteem issues in dogs.
- Consult your vet right away if you notice signs of advanced dental disease in your pet.
By staying on top of your dog’s oral health with brushing, dental treats, regular vet visits and properly addressing any issues that arise, you can help ensure your pet lives a long and healthy life. Proper dental care is so important for your dog’s comfort and wellbeing.
