Bad Breath in Pets
If your pet requires dental care in Methuen, there's no need to worry about finding compassionate treatment. At Methuen Veterinary Hospital, we offer a full array of health services for your pet, including dental care. During a visit to our hospital, our veterinarians will check, diagnose, and determine the necessary steps to treat your pet's dental issues.
Recognizing Dental Disease in Your Pets
As a general rule, your pet should have white teeth and light pink gums. Discoloration of either the gums or teeth is an indication of dental problems. If you can move a tooth, or if touching the gums results in bleeding, these are indicators of disease. Lastly, if a foul odor emanates from their mouth, that is yet another sign that your pet is experiencing dental problems.
Types of Dental Problems in Pets
There are several dental issues that dogs and cats are prone to developing. A few of these conditions include:
- Tooth decay.
- Periodontitis.
- Gingivitis - gum inflammation.
- Oral infection.
- Tooth resorption.
- Tartar and plaque buildup - a thin film coating the tooth that supports bacteria growth.
- Broken tooth.
- Abscessed gums.
- Fractured tooth.
Signs of Dental Problems
Paying close attention to your pet's appearance, behavior, and eating habits can alert you to a dental problem. Signs to watch for include:
- Your pet has bad breath.
- A change in the way they eat.
- Your pet may check their food bowl but refuse to eat even their most favorite flavor.
- In and around your pet's mouth show signs of swelling.
- Excessive sneezing.
- Check your pet for broken or loose teeth.
- The gums are bleeding.
- Other areas around the mouth are bleeding.
- Drooling is significant.
- Inability to hold food in the mouth.
- A change in your pet's overall behavior.
Symptoms of Pet Dental Problems
If your pet shows any of the following signs, it is best to have him or her checked by our veterinarian:
- Halitosis (bad breath).
- Inability to hold food in its mouth.
- Excessive drooling.
- Teeth chattering.
- Saliva tinged with blood.
- Tartar on the teeth.
- Pawing at the head, mouth, and face.
- Loose teeth.
Schedule an Appointment at Our Animal Hospital in Massachusetts
Are you looking for a veterinarian near me? When you need an animal hospital in Methuen that can handle all of your pet's needs, including dentistry, give us a call at Methuen Veterinary Hospital. Our clinic is open Monday through Saturday, providing quality and compassionate health services to our pet community.