How can you tell if your dog has bad teeth?
What do dog teeth with decay look like? When checking your dog's teeth, keep an eye out for these six warning signs:
Dental calculus (plaque): Dental calculus or plaque is a buildup of hardened dental deposits. Although not invariably, that mineral deposit may be yellow, orange, or brown. It usually appears on the interior of the teeth or along the gum line.
Sometimes dental decay is evident as cavities (holes) in your dog's teeth. Large black holes or dark patches on the tooth surface are two signs of dental caries.
Brown teeth: Yellow or brown teeth at the gum line are a strong sign of plaque and tartar accumulation.
Gum disease, or gingivitis, causes the gums to swell and get red around the teeth. Plaque is frequently present on the chewing surfaces of the teeth, along with irritated gums.
Severe periodontitis (receding gums): Periodontitis, which develops from gingivitis over time, causes the gum line to look as though it is separating from the teeth. As a result, pockets may develop that may bleed or fester. The presence of periodontitis may be indicated if your dog's gums are bleeding.
Poor dental hygiene is typically linked to bad breath, much like in humans, even though it can also be an indication of other disorders like digestive, renal, and liver issues.