What this guide can help with
Bad breath is not always harmless. Dental disease can involve painful inflammation, infection, loose or damaged teeth and loss of supporting tissues below the gumline.
Every pet is different. A veterinary examination remains the best way to understand symptoms and decide whether waiting is appropriate.
Key points
- Pets may continue eating despite significant oral pain.
- An awake examination can identify obvious problems, but a complete dental assessment usually requires anaesthesia.
- Dental X-rays may be recommended because much of each tooth is below the gumline.
- Home brushing and appropriately selected dental products work best as prevention, not as treatment for a painful mouth.
Helpful things to do at home
- It is best to wait for an assessment before brushing a painful or bleeding mouth.
- Use pet toothpaste only; human toothpaste may be unsafe if swallowed.
- Ask which dental products are appropriate for your pet.
- Monitor chewing, dropped food, facial swelling, drooling and changes in appetite.
When to book an appointment
- Bad breath, red gums or visible calculus
- Broken, loose or discoloured teeth
- Difficulty chewing or reluctance to eat hard food
Seek urgent veterinary advice for
- Facial swelling
- Uncontrolled oral bleeding
- Jaw trauma or inability to eat or drink
References
This guide is general information only. Your veterinarian will tailor advice to your pet after an examination.