As your pet ages, its health needs tend to change, and one of the most commonly missed aspects of their care is dental health. Senior pets are more prone to dental issues including tooth decay, gum disease, and more.
Proper dental cleaning and checkups are crucial for your pets to maintain their overall health. Here is your guide to preventing dental problems in your senior pets, what tips and signs to look for as well as considerations for your pup.
Dental Risks for Senior Pets
By understanding the unique dental challenges that senior pets face and taking more proactive steps to prevent them, pet owners can ensure that they live happy lives with a healthy mouths. Senior pets are at a much higher risk for developing dental problems due to age-related factors.
Some of these factors include the following:
- Gum recession – growing old can lead to the recession of your pet’s gums, exposing the roots of the teeth which increases the risk of infection.
- Tooth wear – over time, pets who chew more frequently and other activities that naturally wear down the tooth make them more susceptible to tooth decay and damage.
- Immune system changes – aging can often result in a weakened immune system, so fighting off infections becomes more challenging, which can exacerbate diseases in the mouth.
- Dietary changes – certain foods that are high in carbohydrates for pets contribute to increased tartar buildup, which increases the risk for tooth problems.
Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko
Common Dental Issues in Senior Pets
Some of the most common issues with senior pets include periodontal disease, tooth resorption, tooth decay, fractured teeth, and gingivitis. Here’s a more in-depth look into each of these dental problems.
Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease is one of the most common health issues in veterinary medicine. It occurs when plaque and tartar continually build up on the teeth, which then causes inflammation and infection in the gums.
In many cases of this dental issue, leads to tooth loss. It can, however, become more severe when left untreated for senior pets, leading to other health issues such as kidney disease, heart disease, and liver disease.
Tooth Resorption
When the structures surrounding the teeth lose 78= (tissues in the teeth), it becomes a painful condition called resorption. It often leads to more pain and sensitivity in the teeth, often resulting in tooth loss, and is more common in older pets.
Tooth Decay
Bacteria building up in the mouth produces acids that can erode the tooth enamel and break it down. It leads to infection, pain, and loss of teeth when not treated.
Fractured Teeth
Due to the weakening enamel and wearing of the teeth over the years, senior pets can sometimes fracture their teeth, which is extremely painful. It usually requires extraction or other such dental procedures to help reduce the pain and discomfort.
Gingivitis
The gum disease known as gingivitis is an inflammation within the gums that is usually caused by plaque and tartar buildup. In senior pets, it can progress to periodontal disease and create more health issues.
Dental Problem Warning Signs
The expert vet technicians at the emergency veterinary care in Westport, CT state that pet owners must recognize the signs of dental issues early to help treat them immediately before they become more problematic.
Some of the signs and symptoms of dental problems that you can watch out for in your senior pet include the following:
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Difficulty with eating or not wanting to chew food
- Loose or missing teeth
- Swelling around the face and mouth
- Bad breath (halitosis)
- Irritability is noticeable when trying to touch around the mouth.
If you notice any of those symptoms you need to contact and consult with a veterinarian promptly for a dental examination.
Prevention and Care Tips
Proactive dental care for your pet is the best way to reduce the risk of problems down the road. Here are some of the things that you can do to help prevent the need for emergency dental care.
At-Home Dental Care
While it isn’t ideal, pet owners can take the initiative by brushing their pet’s teeth at home. Using pet-specific toothbrushes and paste is a great step to help ensure that your pet’s teeth are regularly cleaned.
Pet owners can also keep stock of dental-specific treats and chews for their pets. Many of these are designed specifically to reduce plaque and tartar buildup. Look for products that are approved by veterinary dental associations.
There are also water and food additives you can invest in that work to help reduce tartar and plaque for cleaner mouths.
Professional Dental Cleanings
Routine cleanings with a veterinary dentist will remove plaque and tarter that is more challenging to do, or when brushing isn’t enough. Your veterinarian may recommend this for your pet depending on factors like breed, age, size, etc.
Regular Veterinary Checkups
Scheduling regular vet visits is an essential aspect to help with dental care. Many vets often check pets’ teeth and examine them to identify and address any potential issues early. Senior pets will usually have more than one checkup annually.
Dietary Habits
What your pet eats plays a role in how their dental health is, so it’s important to ensure you are providing a balanced diet that is tailored specifically to their needs. You can check with your veterinarian regarding specialized diets that may support dental health.
Considerations for Senior Pets
Senior pets can suffer from ailments as they age, which can complicate dental care. Chronic conditions like kidney or heart disease make it difficult to perform dental cleanings under anesthesia and will require careful monitoring.
Medications that your senior pet takes may also affect its oral health or could potentially interact with dental treatments. Your vet should be made aware of any medications and provide you with helpful advice or recommendations to ensure your pet stays safe.
Dental care should begin as early as possible for your pet. Establishing a strategy for oral hygiene helps prevent issues that can arise in later years. Keep on top of regular vet checkups, at-home care, and your pet’s diet to support not just their mouth care, but their overall health for a happy, comfortable life.