13 Mar How to Avoid a Dental Emergency for Your Pet
Your pet’s dental health is just as important as their overall well-being, yet it’s often overlooked until a serious issue arises. Dental emergencies in pets can be painful, stressful, and costly, but the good news is that most are preventable with proper care. From regular brushing to choosing the right chew toys, small steps can make a big difference in keeping your pet’s teeth healthy.
In this blog, we’ll cover the common causes of dental emergencies, signs of trouble, and simple ways to prevent painful oral issues for your furry friend.
Common Causes of Dental Emergencies in Pets
Dental problems in pets often develop gradually but can suddenly become emergencies if left unchecked. Some common causes include:
- Fractured or Broken Teeth – Often caused by chewing on hard objects like bones, antlers, or rocks.
- Periodontal Disease – Gum infections, inflammation, and tooth decay result from poor dental hygiene.
- Abscesses or Infections – Bacteria from untreated dental issues can lead to painful swelling and pus formation.
- Foreign Objects Stuck in the Mouth – Sticks, bones, or even pieces of toys can get lodged in the mouth or between teeth.
- Oral Tumors or Growths – Some pets develop growths in their mouths that can interfere with eating and cause pain. Sometimes oral tumors can grow to the point of being traumatized by surrounding teeth. This can lead to bleeding and pain.
- Jaw Injuries – Trauma from accidents, falls, or fights can lead to broken jaws or misaligned teeth.
Signs Your Pet May Be Experiencing a Dental Problem
Pets are experts at hiding discomfort, so it’s crucial to watch for signs of dental distress:
- Bad breath (halitosis) – A persistent foul odor can indicate infection or decay.
- Difficulty eating or loss of appetite – Avoiding food or chewing on one side may mean they’re in pain. Over time this can lead to heavy calculus buildup on the side that is painful because of decreased chewing on that side of the mouth.
- Pawing at the mouth or face rubbing – Pets often try to relieve discomfort this way.
- Swollen gums or bleeding – Red, inflamed, or bleeding gums are signs of periodontal disease.
- Loose or missing teeth – This could result from advanced dental disease or trauma.
- Excessive drooling – Especially if mixed with blood, drooling can indicate an oral injury.
If you notice any of these signs, schedule a veterinary visit immediately to prevent further complications.
Tips to Prevent Dental Emergencies in Pets
While some dental problems may be unavoidable, you can take proactive steps to minimize the risk of emergencies.
- Brush Your Pet’s Teeth Regularly 🪥
Just like humans, pets benefit from routine brushing. Use a pet-safe toothbrush and toothpaste to clean their teeth every day. Sporadic or occasional brushing will not prevent dental disease. Start slow, and reward them with treats to make it a positive experience. Your veterinarian and their team members can help you and your pet become more comfortable with tooth brushing.
- Schedule Regular Veterinary Dental Checkups 🏥
Annual or biannual dental exams can help detect issues early before they become emergencies. A professional cleaning removes tartar buildup and reduces the risk of gum disease. This should always be combined with full mouth dental radiographs.
- Provide Safe Chew Toys 🦴
Choose soft, flexible dental chews instead of hard bones or antlers, which can break teeth. Rubber toys, dental sticks, and approved dental chews can help keep your pet’s teeth clean while being safe for their bite.
- Feed a Dental-Friendly Diet 🍖
Some pet foods and treats are specially designed to reduce plaque and tartar buildup. Consult your veterinarian for recommendations on the best diet for your pet’s oral health.
- Avoid Table Scraps and Cooked Bones 🚫
Cooked bones can splinter and cause serious oral injuries, while sugary or sticky human foods can promote dental decay. Stick to pet-approved food and treats.
- Monitor for Foreign Objects 🔎
Check your pet’s mouth regularly to ensure there are no stuck objects like sticks, food particles, or broken toy pieces that could cause injuries or infections.
What to Do in a Pet Dental Emergency – See your veterinarian immediately. They will be able to diagnose and treat your pet promptly.
Final Thoughts
Preventing dental emergencies in pets is all about proactive care. With regular brushing, vet checkups, safe chew toys, and a proper diet, you can significantly reduce the risk of painful and costly oral issues. If you have questions or concerns about your pet’s dental health, contact us at Animal Dental Care & Oral Surgery of Colorado Springs to schedule an appointment for your furry companion.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (03/13/2025) Photo by Sugarman Joe on Unsplash
