Dental Disease in Dogs & Cats - Signs, Causes & Why Early Vet Care Matters

Dental disease is one of the most common health problems seen in dogs and cats. In fact, the majority of adult pets show signs of dental disease by three or five years of age if regular oral care isn't maintained.

Even though dental disease starts in the mouth, it can lead to pain, infection, and even affect your pet's overall health if left untreated - including their heart, kidneys, and other organs.

What is dental disease?

Dental disease begins with plaque, a sticky layer of bacteria that forms on the teeth. If plaque is not removed, it mineralises into tartar, which causes the gums to become red and inflamed - a condition known as gingivitis. Over time, the infection can spread below the gumline and damage the structures that support the teeth (periodontal disease).

Common Causes of Dental Disease

Pets can develop dental disease for may reasons, including:

• Bacterial plaque and tartar buildup.
• Age and wear over time.
• Breed predispositions (e.g. small breeds, flat-faced breeds).
• Lack of effective daily oral care at home.
• Diets that don't support teeth cleaning.

Even pets who seems to "eat fine" can be harbouring pain or infection because animals often hide oral discomfort.

Signs of Dental Disease to Watch For

Pets rarely show dramatic symptoms early on, so it's important to know what to look for. Common signs include:

• Persistent bad breath.
• Red, swollen or bleeding gums.
• Yellow or brown tartar buildup on teeth.
• Drooling or discomfort around the mouth.
• Bad chewing habits (preferring one side or dropping food).
• Pawing at the face or reluctance to play with toys.
• Loose or missing teeth.
• Behaviour changes such as irritability or lethargy if you notice any of these signs, it's time to book an oral health check with your veterinarian.

How Dental Disease Affects General Health

Dental disease is not "just bad breath". Bacteria from dental infections can enter the bloodstream and contribute to serious systemic problems, including infections in the heart, liver, and kidneys. regular dental examinations help catch issues before they become widespread health concerns.

What Happens During a Veterinary Dental Exam

At Vet Cross, a thorough dental assessment may include:

• A full mouth examination.
• Grading your pet's dental disease.
• Professional cleaning and scaling under anaesthesia.
• Tooth extraction if necessary.
• Home care recommendations.

As part of a comprehensive dental assessment, we recommend dental x-rays to identify issues beneath the gumline that are not visible during a visual exam. These images help your vet diagnose problems like tooth root disease, bone loss, and hidden infections - learn more on our Dental x-ray page:

How to Help Prevent Dental Disease

While dental disease is common, there are steps you can take to reduce your pet's risk:

• Regular at-home brushing with pet-safe toothpaste.
• Dental chews, diets, and toys approved for oral health.
• Routine veterinary dental check-ups.
• Professional cleaning when recommended by your vet.

Keeping up with preventive care can slow the progression of dental disease and help your pet remain comfortable and healthy throughout life.

Book a Dental Check for Your Pet

Dental disease can be painful and progressively destructive if left untreated. Early detection and regular professional care are key to maintaining your pet's comfort and quality of life.

Call us at Vet Cross to book a dental exam and discuss whether your pet would benefit from dental x-rays and cleaning.
We're here to help keep your pet's smile healthy!