5 Consequences of Rotten Dog Teeth

It’s a fact—most dog owners never take a good look inside their dog’s mouth. And that’s unfortunate, because it’s estimated that over 80% of dogs have significant dental health issues.

Far too often, veterinarians discover during the physical exam that their canine patient has serious dental disease. Loose, discolored teeth, a foul odor to the breath and infected gums are just a few of the signs of canine periodontal disease.

And rotten dog teeth aren’t just their own issue; they can cause many other serious health problems. If your dog’s dental care hasn’t been top of mind, here’s why it should be.


How Poor Oral Hygiene Affects Your Dog

If left unaddressed, dental disease can cause progressive issues that put your dog’s entire body and overall health at risk.

Here are some of the health problems that can result from periodontal disease.

Gum Inflammation

Beneath the gumline, the bacteria associated with plaque release toxins that damage the surrounding tissues.

White blood cells then enter those areas in an effort to destroy the bacteria. This process causes significant inflammation of the gums, known as gingivitis.

The inflammation causes the gums to look abnormally red and puffy, and the tissue may bleed when touched.

Pathologic Jaw Fracture

Inflammation also commonly leads to periodontitis, or loss of the supportive, structural tissues surrounding the teeth.

When white blood cells attempt to clear accumulating bacteria, the resulting inflammatory process erodes the supporting tissues of the tooth. Over time, this destruction causes structural weakening of the tooth sockets and jaw bones.

Symptoms of periodontitis include loose teeth and infection or fracture of the jaw.

Heart Disease

Chronic inflammation from periodontal disease can also increase a dog’s risk of heart disease.

Circulating bacteria can cause an inflammatory condition known as endocarditis. Studies have also shown that dogs with dental disease have an increased risk of congestive heart failure, a progressive and potentially fatal disease.

Read More: 5 Consequences of Rotten Dog Teeth