Up to 80% of pets develop some form of dental disease by 3 years of age. During regular physical exams, the veterinarian will take a look at your cat or dog’s teeth and determine whether a dental cleaning is necessary. Dental disease can cause a number of medical issues including infection, loss of teeth, pain and inflammation, and can even affect the kidneys, liver, and heart. Here are some signs to look for that may help you identify if your pet has dental disease:
- Bad breath
- Gums are red, swollen, or inflamed
- Gums bleed when they are brushed or touched
- Painful when chewing, won’t eat ice
- Eats canned or soft food regularly instead of dry food
- If you press a cotton swab to your pets gums, their teeth chatter or bleed
- Heavy tartar, green or black build up on teeth near gum line
- Pus or discharge coming from the gums around the teeth
- Pawing or scratching at face excessively
- Swelling on only one side of the face or eye discharge
