Here's How to Tell If Your Pet Dog Is Experiencing Toothache

Here's How to Tell If Your Pet Dog Is Experiencing Toothache

28 March 2019
 Categories: , Blog


If you've ever suffered from toothache, you know how excruciating the pain can be. You definitely wouldn't want your pet dog to experience the same pain. 

Unfortunately, dogs aren't immune to tooth pain. If they catch cavities, develop a dental disease or suffer trauma to the tooth, they can develop a toothache. Although they can't speak, pets usually display symptoms of a toothache. As a pet owner, you should understand these symptoms so you can take them to the veterinary dentist immediately.

Learn how to tell if your pet is suffering from a toothache here.

Foul Breath

Does your dog have stinky breath? Don't be quick to send them away! This is a sign of poor oral hygiene, but it could also imply that your dog is in pain. The bacteria that builds up on teeth over time can lead to bad breathe but also trigger cavities that cause oral pain.

Eating Difficulties

Does your dog have a difficult time feeding? Just like you, dogs don't enjoy their meals when they're having a bad toothache. If your dog isn't eating their favourite food as they used to before, a painful tooth may be the cause of their apparent lack of appetite. 

Drooling 

Does saliva trickle uncontrollably from your dog's mouth? Excessive salivation is another sign that your dog may be experiencing a toothache. Dogs usually keep their mouth wide open when they're drooling.

Tooth Discolouration

Just like foul breath, tooth discolouration is also a telltale sign of poor oral hygiene. But it also points to the fact that your dog may have cavities that cause toothache. If there's an excessive buildup of tartar on your dog's teeth or if the teeth are dark, consider seeking out a vet dentist for your dog.

Low Spirits

Does your dog seem like they are under the weather? Toothaches are a common reason why dogs may become disinterested in activities that they usually love. If your dog doesn't want to play and just lies down throughout the day, you should get their teeth checked out at the vet dental clinic.

Inflamed Gums

Are your dog's gums swollen? If you've had swollen gums before, you'll know your dog is in pain. Seek out a vet dentist for your dog immediately.

You have to take steps to keep your dog's mouth clean just like you do with your own teeth. Brushing your dog's teeth regularly will help to get rid of the cavity- and disease-causing bacteria that builds up on the teeth over time. But if you notice any of the above-discussed symptoms, take your companion animal to the veterinary dentist immediately.