Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is a common, painful issue among dogs and cats, leading to tooth loss and systemic diseases if left untreated. By being able to recognize your furry friend’s periodontal disease signs, you can get them timely veterinary care to keep your pet happy and healthy, keeping their mouth pain-free. Our Santa Monica Veterinary Group team describes pets’ periodontal disease signs and how to care for your four-legged friend’s pearly whites. 

1. Your pet has bad breath

While occasional bad breath (i.e., halitosis) in pets can be expected, depending on their diet, persistent bad breath is often the first periodontal disease sign. Unpleasant mouth odor results from oral bacterial buildup.

2. Your pet has red or bleeding gums

Healthy gums are typically light to medium pink in color. If your pet’s gums appear red or swollen or bleed easily, this could indicate gum inflammation (i.e., gingivitis) caused by periodontal disease. 

3. Your pet has discolored teeth

Visible yellow or brown stains on your pet’s teeth are an unmistakable dental problem sign. These stains are caused by tartar and plaque buildup, which contribute to periodontal disease.

4. Your pet has difficulty eating

Pets with periodontal disease may find chewing or eating painful, leading to changes in their eating habits. Your furry pal might drop food from their mouth or chew on one side to avoid discomfort and pain. 

5. Your pet persistently drools

Excessive drooling can be a response to mouth discomfort or pain. If your pet starts drooling more than usual, they may have dental issues.

6. Your pet has loose or missing teeth

Advanced periodontal disease can weaken the structures supporting the teeth, causing them to become loose or even fall out. Regular dental exams by our Santa Monica Veterinary Group veterinarian can help prevent such severe outcomes.

7. Your pet paws at their mouth

If your pet frequently paws at their mouth or face, they may have oral discomfort or pain, which is often associated with dental disease.

8. Your pet isn’t eating as much or has lost weight

Painful dental conditions can cause pets to eat less, leading to weight loss and nutritional deficiencies. Monitoring your pet’s eating habits and weight can help identify potential health issues early.

9. Your pet’s face or mouth is swollen

In advanced cases, periodontal disease can lead to abscesses or infections, causing noticeable swelling around the mouth or face. Facial swelling should be considered an emergency, requiring immediate treatment.

10. Your pet’s behavior has changed

Because they cannot verbally express their pain, a pet with periodontal disease may exhibit behavior changes such as irritability, lethargy, or reluctance to engage in activities they previously enjoyed. Dental pain can significantly affect your four-legged friend’s overall mood and quality of life.

Preventing periodontal disease in your pet

Preventive care is crucial to maintaining your pet’s oral health. To prevent your furry pal from developing periodontal disease, follow our team’s tips:

  • Schedule regular wellness and dental exams — Consistent veterinary exams can catch dental issues early. By scheduling your furry friend’s routine veterinary appointments, you have peace of mind, knowing these nose-to-tail physicals, including oral exams, allow our team to detect potential diseases before they become severe.
  • Schedule professional dental cleanings — Pets require professional dental cleanings to remove tartar and bacteria that toothbrushing alone cannot. Our team performs professional dental cleanings while your furry pal is under anesthesia, which keeps your pet sedated while we thoroughly examine, scale, and polish their teeth. During your pet’s professional dental exam, we take  X-rays to look for bone loss and other periodontal disease effects.
  • Brush your pet’s teeth daily — Brush your pet’s teeth daily or several times a week with pet-safe toothpaste to prevent plaque buildup and tartar development. If you are uneasy about brushing your pet’s teeth, ask our team for some dental hygiene pointers and a demonstration. Consistently brushing your furry pal’s teeth will gradually become less challenging as they adjust to the regimen.
  • Provide dental treats and chews — Provide your pet with dental treats and toys designed to help clean teeth and reduce tartar. However, dental treats also add to your pet’s daily calorie intake, so feed your furry pal these treats in moderation.
  • Feed a balanced diet — Ensure your pet has a balanced diet that supports their overall health, including their dental health. Consult with our veterinarian for recommendations on the best diet for your furry friend. 

Being vigilant and proactive about your pet’s dental health can help prevent them from developing periodontal disease and ensure they live a long, happy, and healthy life. If you notice any of the periodontal disease signs we have described here, schedule your pet’s professional dental exam with our Santa Monica Veterinary Group team so your furry pal receives appropriate treatment.