Like humans, a dog needs a consistent oral routine to maintain its gums and teeth in tiptop condition. If not taken care of, their teeth may contract dental diseases. While we might think dental disease in dogs only affects their oral health, this can result in systemic conditions that could be very unpredictable and expensive to cure. Now, let’s learn how dental illness can reduce your furry buddy’s wellbeing.
How Dental Disease Can Affect Your Pet’s Health
Heart problems, diabetes, and broken jaw are some health issues connected to poor oral hygiene in family pets. However, dogs are great at hiding the pain that you may not even know if there’s an issue. This is why veterinarians and dog dental professionals always recommend that you take your canine for regular check-ups to identify their possible health complications.
It is necessary to know how oral disease impacts your furry companion’s life to avoid it from happening in the first place.
1. Promotes inflammation
Bacteria from a tooth infection kick off your pet’s immune system, resulting in an inflammatory response. The inflammatory reaction eliminates bacteria, but it also damages the healthy tissue. Infection, pain, and tissue loss are possible consequences of this.
Swellings caused by oral illness increase the danger of germs getting into the bloodstream, affecting some parts of their inner organs. This can result in damage and infections to their body, leading to more complicated health problems.
2. Jaw fractures
Poor oral health might cause major damage to your pet’s jaw, which is more likely experienced by small dog breed owners. The infections caused by the dental illness can damage their jaw, and even the most minor impacts can break their fragile bones.
While a broken jaw is only a possible threat to bad tooth health, it’s unusual for pets. However, it’s vital to bring them to a pet surgery professional immediately when you discern indications of a broken jaw to prevent their condition from getting worse.
3. Kidney and liver disease
Periodontal disease in canines is caused by a bacteria termed periodontitis. This impacts a dog’s mouth, damaging its teeth bones, gums, and other supporting structures. It can cause gingivitis, halitosis, and loss of teeth. Dogs with gum disease might not show visible symptoms until the disease has fully developed.
In the worst-case scenario, the stated bacteria can get into the bloodstream and affect your dog’s internal parts, which can cause liver, heart, and kidney issues. Pets with problems in the said organs must be treated thoroughly to avoid major issues if they develop dental disease. Taking your canine to a vet internist can help reduce these complications through diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment for internal systems.
You may browse websites like ambassadorpet.com to know what types of services vet internists offer.
4. Loss of weight and appetite
Dental problems can hinder your dog’s eating habits as it can be an uneasy and unpleasant experience for them. This causes them to be hesitant in opening their jaws and even drop food from their mouth if they attempt to chew. Your dog’s health may suffer if they decline to eat, resulting in weight loss.
The moment your canine shows indications of dental issues, do not hesitate to do something about it quickly. Have them examined by a veterinarian dentist right away, so they can enjoy eating again to regain their lost strength and weight. You may check their dentistry page to learn more about the necessary dental care for your pet.
5. Complicates diabetes
Pets with diabetes are prone to contracting a dental disease, making it tougher for them to manage diabetes. Diabetic animals may find it more difficult to regulate their blood sugar levels due to gum infection and disease-related inflammation, worsening their condition. If you’re a pet owner with a diabetic dog or cat, it is crucial to monitor their dental health more frequently.
