Gum Disease in Dogs: An Expert Guide from the Animal Hospital near Overland Park

There is no other way to say it: a pet with healthy teeth equals a pet with better breath.

And who doesn't like to shower affection, giving hundreds, if not thousands of puppy kisses, to show our love to our homey furry friends? The pet lovers at our animal hospital near Overland Park say it’s naturally therapeutic to use human gestures, such as hugging and kissing, when spending time with your pet together.

But, did you know that dental diseases in pets can lead to other health problems? At Animal Medical Center of Kansas City, we are here to help pet parents better understand the implications of poor dental health and provide the care pets need.

Common Warning Signs of Dog Tooth Problems

As a matter of fact, according to the Fetch by WebMD, more than 80% of dogs over three years old have periodontal disease. 

Yet, owners sometimes take months -  if not years -  between scheduling their pets' dental exams and teeth cleanings. 

Some general dental concerns among dogs include a buildup of plaque, crooked, cracked, or loose teeth that leads to discomfort or an infection or an abscess that may cause later problems, including heart or kidney disease. 

Our expert veterinarians at our animal hospital near Overland Park suggest watching out for these telltale signs of tooth decay: 

•         Changes to eating habits
•         Loss of appetite
•         Unusual night awakenings
•         Rubbing the face against things
•         Facial swelling
•         Unusually bad breath
•         Bleeding around the mouth

Determine Your Dog’s Oral Condition by Visiting our Animal Hospital near Overland Park 

Any time you suspect the above issues, it's best to book an appointment at our Animal Medical Center of Kansas City to assess the dental care needed for your furry companion.

Sometimes a dog's oral condition may be genetic, or the upper and lower jaw may be misaligned. Some breeds are known for their particular bite and may face difficulties in chewing if they don't get the necessary treatment.

In other cases, red or inflamed gums may mean that your pet may be at risk of periodontal disease.

 Whatever may be the case, our goal is to work with you to provide the best preventive care for you and your pet. Knowing the problems early will help your dog enjoy a healthy and vigorous playtime. Request for an appointment by clicking here.