How can you tell that your dog has a toothache? Unfortunately, the signs are not always obvious. It’s up to you to decipher your dog’s subtle hints of discomfort so you can seek out effective pet dental care. The following are just a few things to look for.

How to Tell Your Dog Has a Toothache

1. Problems Chewing

Naturally, a toothache can cause painful chewing. As a result, your dog may chew food in an odd way or refuse to eat dry food, which has a crunchy texture that elicits pain in damaged teeth. Pay attention to problems chewing that occur suddenly, especially in dogs who’ve never experienced issues before.

2. Bad Breath

While your dog’s breath may be far from pleasant on good days, watch out for extreme odors. Many dogs don’t receive a sufficient amount of pet dental care, which means the majority experience some kind of issue related to gum disease or decay. This can also cause bad breath on a frequent basis, which will only get worse as dental issues progress. Be sure to visit your veterinarian for a checkup and consider buying your dog a toothbrush or dental bones, which can scrub away bacteria.

3. Behavioral Issues

If your dog is more irritable than usual, the issue could be dental in nature. Much like people, dogs respond to pain by acting out in other ways, including exhibiting cranky behavior. Your dog may also spend more time alone, or seek out your attention 24/7. Any significant change in behavior requires a trip to the animal clinic.

Crescent Springs Animal Hospital knows that pet dental care is a crucial component of keeping your dog happy and healthy. That’s why these skilled veterinarians offer oral exams, dental X-rays, and cleanings. If your dog needs gum disease treatment or plaque removal, their team will administer sedation that will keep your pet calm and safe. Schedule an appointment at this Kenton County, KY, clinic by calling (859) 331-6608 today. You can also visit their website for more information on the services offered.