Dogs and cats can suffer from the same dental problems we do: plaque buildup, gum disease, and even painful tooth infections. The difference is, they can’t tell us when something’s wrong. Most pets will keep eating or playing like normal, even when they’re dealing with sore gums or aching teeth.

That’s why dental health is about more than keeping your pet’s breath fresh. It also plays a big role in their comfort, happiness, and overall health. 

Why Dental Health Is So Important

When bacteria build up on the teeth and gums, it forms a sticky plaque that eventually hardens and turns into tartar. The bacteria can cause tooth and gum infections that can spread through your pet’s bloodstream to other parts of the body. These infections put unnecessary strain on organs like the heart, kidneys, and liver. 

Poor dental health can also lead to:

• Tooth pain that makes eating difficult
• Bad breath that doesn’t go away 
• Painful infections that cause tooth loss
• Loss of appetite and nutritional deficiencies

And here’s the thing: pets rarely complain. A dog may still wag its tail at dinner, and a cat may nibble a few bites of kibble, but that doesn’t mean their mouth is pain-free. 

Are Teeth Cleanings Really Necessary for Cats and Dogs?

Yes. Professional cleanings at the vet go far beyond what you can do at home. Cleanings include scaling under the gumline, polishing the teeth, and checking for hidden problems like cavities, cracked teeth, and signs of gum disease. 

If you skip dental cleanings and tooth brushing, the problems may not show up right away. But over time as plaque builds up, the gums will become infected and inflamed, and then the teeth will loosen and fall out. And plaque builds up quickly. By age three, most dogs and cats already show some signs of dental disease. 

If you don’t take care of your pet’s teeth, they can face pain, infections, and, in many cases, preventable health problems that become much harder to treat later on.

What You Can Do at Home

Routine teeth cleanings are important, but daily habits make a big difference too. Here’s what you can do at home to keep your pet’s teeth clean between vet visits.

• Brush regularly. Daily brushing the gold standard for both dogs and cats.
• Using the right products. Always use products made for pets—never use people toothpaste.
• Offering dental chews or treats. They’re not a replacement for brushing, but they can help reduce plaque. 
• Watching for warning signs. Dropping food, pawing at the mouth, red gums, or unusually bad breath may point to tooth pain or other issues that need a vet’s attention. 

Just like you take preventive measures between your own dental visits, taking a few small steps at home will help you protect your pet’s teeth. 

Healthy Teeth = Happy Pets

Dental care isn’t just about avoiding stinky breath; it’s about keeping your pet comfortable, healthy, and full of energy. A little prevention now means fewer problems later..

If you’re not sure whether your dog or cat is due for a dental cleaning, or you’ve noticed symptoms like bad breath, yellow teeth, or changes in eating habits, you should see a vet. At Anasazi Animal Clinic, we’ll check on your pet’s teeth, gums, and entire body so you can feel confident they are getting the care they need. Contact us to make an appointment today.

Photo by Marie Lemaistre on Pexels used with permission under the creative commons license for commercial use 9/6/2025

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Cats may be predators, but that doesn’t mean they’re at the top of the food chain. They can be hunted by larger animals, like coyotes or hawks. For this reason, cats instinctively hide their pain—they don’t want to appear weak when they are vulnerable, because it might attract larger predators.

Some signs of illness in cats are more obvious, like vomiting and diarrhea. Others are more subtle, like the changes in behavior we’ll review below. Here’s how to tell if your cat is sick.

Is Your Cat Doing One of These Five Things?

• Hiding All the Time
• Not Eating as Much
• Meowing in the Litterbox
• Coughing or Hacking
• Wobbling When Walking

All five of these behaviors are good reasons to take your cat to the vet! It might be something minor, like the new laundry detergent you’re using, or something more serious, like a tooth infection. Let’s go over each of these symptoms in more detail.

Five Signs of Illness in Cats

1: Hiding All the Time

All cats like to hide. Hiding makes them feel safe, and allows them to get a good deep sleep once in a while instead of just a “catnap.” However, constant hiding may be a sign that something is wrong. They may be hiding out of anxiety—like after a move to a new home, adopting another pet, or a disruption to their normal schedule. 

Hiding can also be a sign of illness—when cats are sick and want to feel safe, they’ll retreat to their favorite hiding place to rest. If your cat has been “missing” for more than a day, you should take them to the vet for an examination.

2: Not Eating as Much

Sometimes cats will refuse to eat if you serve them a new type of food or a brand they don’t like. But most of the time, loss of appetite is a big red flag telling you that your cat is sick. 

They may be in pain from a tooth abscess, or feeling nauseous because of an infection. It could be a sign of anxiety, or a symptom of chronic disease. If your cat is refusing to eat, and you haven’t made any changes to their diet, bring them to the vet right away. 

3: Meowing in the Litterbox

If your cat is vocalizing when they use the litterbox, there’s a reason for it. Perhaps they’re trying to get your attention by ever-so-subtly hinting that you need to change the litter. However, if they’re meowing every time they go, you should take your cat to the vet. 

Meowing in the litterbox could indicate a painful urinary tract infection or—even worse—a bowel obstruction. If your cat swallowed a string or a small object, it could be blocking their intestines and causing internal bleeding. Bowel obstructions can quickly turn deadly, and your cat will need urgent care.

4: Coughing or Hacking

You know that hacking couch that indicates a hairball is on the way? If your cat is coughing and coughing but not producing a hairball, they might be sick. They could have asthma, a respiratory infection, or a number of other health problems. They could also be reacting to the fumes from cleaning products or air fresheners. 

Sometimes, a coughing spell just means your cat is having trouble ejecting a hairball. But if your cat keeps coughing, and no hairballs come up, take them to see a vet.

5: Wobbling When Walking

If your cat seems a little unsteady on their feet, or they’re too weak to jump, they may be seriously ill. Ataxia (lack of coordination) and weakness can be symptoms of many illnessess. It could indicate anything from an ear infection to a brain tumor to a spinal injury. It could also be a reaction to ingesting something toxic, like pollen from a bouquet of lilies.

A sudden lack of coordination is definitely cause for concern. If your cat can’t walk straight or seems too weak to move, get them to the vet right away.

Veterinary Care for Cats in Gilbert

If you’re looking for the best veterinarians for cats in Gilbert, Arizona, you found us! Nobody else will give your cat the same loving attention and dedicated care as Anasazi Animal Clinic. If you’re concerned about a recent change in your cat’s behavior, give us a call to make an appointment. Whether the problem is large or small, we can give your cat the care they need. 

Photo by Ladislav Stercell on Unsplash used with permission under the Creative Commons license for commercial use 3/17/25.

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Bad breath in dogs is a pretty common complaint. Most often it’s caused by plaque and tartar buildup on their teeth. But even dogs with good dental health can have bad breath. Sometimes it takes a combination of remedies to combat the doggy breath. Ready to give some a try?

Here are seven natural ways to prevent bad breath in dogs.

Seven Remedies for Bad Doggy Breath

1. Add 1/2 teaspoon of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar to their water bowl. Their antibacterial properties will help reduce plaque buildup.
2. Sprinkle some chopped parsley or mint on their dinner. Eating these herbs will naturally freshen their breath, because of their antimicrobial action.
3. For better digestion, try adding a teaspoon of coconut oil or some cooked brown rice to your dog’s food. This will help cut down on the number of stinky dog burps.
4. Crunchy carrots and apples make great snacks, for people and dogs alike. The natural scrubbing action of the fiber in these foods will clean your pup’s teeth while they chew.
5. Dental treats are also designed to clean your pet’s teeth as they chew. Along with toothbrushing, they’ll keep plaque and tartar away.
6. Brush your dog’s teeth every day, or as often as they’ll let you. Always use a toothpaste that’s formulated for dogs, so it won’t contain any harmful ingredients. 
7. Probiotics also support good digestion and good dental health. You can purchase a supplement or freeze some plain yogurt in a lick mat for a treat.

Veterinary Care for Dogs in Gilbert, Arizona

Persistent bad breath in dogs can be a sign of illness. If the home remedies aren’t helping, your dog might have an infected tooth or digestive trouble. The vets at Anasazi Animal Clinic will give your dog an exam and help you find a solution for their chronic bad breath. Contact us today to schedule an appointment. 

Photo by Jeremy Stewardson on Unsplash used with permission under the Creative Commons license for commercial use 11/1/24.

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Plaque buildup causes many of the same dental problems in dogs as it does in humans. Since dogs can’t brush their own teeth, most of them develop some kind of dental disease by the time they’re three years old. If you want to spare your dog from the pain of tooth loss, brushing their teeth is one of the best things you can do.

So how do you get your dog to let you brush their teeth? We know it’s tricky—our veterinarians offer a few toothbrush training tips below.

Training Your Dog to Tolerate the Toothbrush

Getting Started

First, you’ll need the right kind of toothbrush and toothpaste. Make sure to choose dog-specific products, so you don’t end up hurting your pet’s mouth or making them sick. Human toothpaste is not meant for dogs. You’ll also need to make sure you have the right size of toothbrush for your dog’s age or breed. If you’re at all uncertain about what to buy, your veterinarian will be happy to give you advice. 

Next, try to find a brand of dental treats that your dog enjoys. They’re no substitute for brushing, but they will help remove plaque and keep your dog’s teeth a little cleaner until they get used to a toothbrush. You can also use them as rewards to encourage good behavior during the tooth-brushing process.

Three Tips for Toothbrush Training 

1: Start When They’re a Puppy

The sooner you start brushing your dog’s teeth, the better. If you make a habit of it when they’re still a puppy, they’ll accept it as a normal part of the day. This will make it much easier to keep their teeth healthy and strong when they grow up. Just make sure to use a brush that’s small enough for your puppy’s mouth.

2: For Adult Dogs, Start with a Finger Brush

If you’re trying to introduce an adult dog to tooth brushing, it’s best to take it slow. Make sure they’re comfortable and relaxed, then start with touching their lips and lifting them up. Gradually work up to using a finger brush and then a toothbrush.

A silicone finger brush won’t do much in the plaque-removal department. However, it will help your dog get used to you touching their teeth and gums. It also feels “tickly” like a toothbrush, so they won’t be surprised by a new sensation when you eventually make the switch.

3: Bribe Your Dog with Treats

When it comes to plaque removal, brushing your dog’s teeth is three times more effective than giving them a dental chew. However, when you add dental treats to your dog’s brushing routine, their teeth will be even cleaner. 

Ideally, dental treats make the best bribes. In the beginning if you need to use a few bits of a regular dog treat, that’s fine. It’s all about making toothbrushing more enjoyable for your dog. If they need their favorite treats to get through it, that’s okay. What matters is that the toothbrush is reaching and cleaning all their teeth.  

Is Your Dog Due for a Checkup?

Dogs should get a veterinary examination at least once a year. If you live in the Gilbert area, schedule an appointment at Anasazi Animal Clinic. Our vets are here to help you keep your pets happy and healthy. During the exam, we’ll check up on your pet’s physical and dental health. And if you have any questions about how to get your dog to let you brush their teeth, please let us know!

Photo by Andriyko Podilnyk on Unsplash used with permission under the Creative Commons License for Commercial Use 9/18/24.

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Dental problems can cause extreme pain, and often lead to tooth loss. Unfortunately, most people simply don’t realize how important good dental health is for cats. If you’re new to cat dental care, here are a few tips to get you started.

Four Essential Cat Dental Care Tips for Beginners

1: Brush Your Cat’s Teeth Every Day

Obviously, cats can’t brush their teeth on their own. And since plaque and tartar buildup can cause serious problems, it’s important for you to learn how to brush your cat’s teeth.

First—and most importantly—you’ll need to get a cat toothbrush and a toothpaste that is designed specifically for cats. Not only will the toothpaste have a flavor that your cat will love—like salmon or chicken—all of its ingredients will be safe for cats. 

Cats don’t usually like people sticking things into their mouths, so start out by just letting your cat taste the toothpaste. Pretend like it’s a treat! Let them lick it off of your finger or off of the toothbrush, give them lots of pets and reassurance, and gradually work up to actually brushing their teeth.

2: Feed Your Cat a Healthy Diet

Feeding your cat a high-quality, low-carb diet will also promote good dental health. You don’t have to go as far as feeding them a raw food diet or anything like that—just make sure that their kibble is mainly protein. Ideally, your cat’s food should have a carbohydrate content of 15% or less.

You can also give your cat dental treats to help reduce plaque formation. Even though cats don’t do as much chewing as dogs, the shape and texture of cat dental treats are specifically designed to clean a cat’s teeth. Cat grass (wheatgrass) is also good for your cat’s teeth, and it has other health benefits as well.

3: Check in on Your Cat’s Gum Health

Did you know that your cat’s gums are a good indicator of how healthy their teeth are? Healthy gums should be light pink, firm, and slightly moist. If they are red, dry, swollen, or pulling away from the teeth, bring your cat to see a veterinary dentist. Gum disease is a major cause of tooth loss in cats, so the sooner you seek treatment, the better.

Symptoms of gum disease in cats include:

• Bleeding (when brushing teeth, or blood on food)
• Reduced appetite, or only eating soft food
• Dark spots on the gums
• Red and swollen gums
• Uneven gum line (receding gums)
• Drooling
• Bad breath

4: Take Your Cat to the Vet for a Dental Exam Every Year

Good dental health is one of the reasons your cat needs a checkup every year. Oftentimes, people think that there’s no reason to take an indoor cat to the vet as long as they seem healthy. 

However, because dental problems can be difficult to detect, checkups are essential, even if your cat isn’t displaying symptoms. 

Also, it can be hard to tell when your cat is in pain. Not only will your vet be able to examine your cat’s mouth for signs of dental disease, they’ll also be able to provide treatments and cleanings that will keep your cat’s teeth healthy. 

Older cats especially need regular checkups, and yearly dental cleanings will help prevent tooth loss and dental pain. Because infections of the teeth and gums can spread to other parts of the body, you’ll also be reducing your cat’s risk of serious illnesses like kidney disease and heart disease by keeping their teeth clean.

Dental Care for Cats in Gilbert, Arizona

Even if you’re already brushing your cat’s teeth every day, they still need annual dental checkups. A veterinary dentist can get rid of plaque and tartar buildup that a toothbrush can’t reach, and dental checkups are also important for detecting the early signs of gum disease. Regular dental cleanings will help prevent pain, tooth loss, and the need for expensive surgical procedures later on. 

At Anasazi Animal Clinic, we can provide expert dental care for cats, and we can also advise you on the best ways to take care of your cat’s teeth at home. So if you want to learn how to brush your cat’s teeth, or need a few more cat dental care tips, make an appointment today! We’re always happy to answer any questions about what you can do to make sure your cat lives a long and happy life.

Photo by Manki Kim on Unsplash used with permission under the Creative Commons license for commercial use 7/22/2024.

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Gum disease is dangerous, because it leads to painful tooth decay, infections, and tooth loss. If your pet doesn’t want to eat or play because they’re in pain, it severely affects their quality of life. They might become depressed, since they can’t enjoy their normal activities. They might even develop further health problems if they aren’t getting enough to eat.

That’s why taking care of your pet’s dental health is so important, and why you should do everything you can to make sure their teeth stay healthy. In addition to yearly dental exams and daily tooth brushing, you might also want to try pet dental treats—here’s why. 

How Do Pet Dental Treats Work?

The ingredients and effectiveness of pet dental treats vary from brand to brand. Typically, they rely on the abrasive texture of the treat to scrape plaque and tartar off of your pet’s teeth as they chew. Some brands include enzymes (like bromelain from pineapple) that fight bacteria and prevent plaque buildup. Others include antioxidants to reduce inflammation, or probiotics to reduce bad bacteria.

Dental Treats vs. Brushing Teeth

Studies show that pet dental treats can remove plaque and reduce the risk of dental diseases. They can even freshen your pet’s breath. However, they should never be substituted for a toothbrush. In fact, a 2019 study concluded that:

“Daily tooth brushing was shown to be more than three times as effective at controlling plaque accumulation compared to using a daily dental chew or dental diet.”

Dental chews may not be as effective as tooth brushing, but when you combine the two together, your pet’s teeth and gums will be even healthier. Think of it like using mouthwash—it’s not a replacement for brushing, but when you rinse after you brush you’ll have a cleaner mouth and fresher breath. If you brush your pet’s teeth AND give them a dental chew every day, they’ll have a cleaner mouth and fresher breath, too.

Get Recommendations from a Pet Dentist

Along with daily brushing and yearly dental checkups, dental treats can help you keep your pet’s teeth and gums healthy. If you want to get a personalized recommendation on the best dental chews for your pet, make an appointment at Anasazi Animal Clinic. Our veterinary dentists will give your pet’s teeth a thorough examination and advise you on the best at-home dental care for your pet. If your cat or dog needs any dental treatments, we can provide those as well. If you live in or near Gilbert, Arizona, contact us today to schedule a visit.

Photo by Marek Szturc on Unsplash used with permission under the Creative Commons license for commercial use 6/26/2024.

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When it comes to selecting the best diet for your dog’s health, people have a lot of questions. But finding the answers isn’t so easy. Brands that make dry dog food claim that their food is the healthiest. Brands that make fresh dog food claim exactly the same thing!

So which type of food is better? What is the best diet for your dog’s teeth? Let’s compare.

Fresh Food vs. Kibble: Pros and Cons

Advocates of dry dog food claim that eating kibble naturally scrapes away plaque as dogs chew. Plus, dry dog food manufacturers have also gone to great lengths to get their recipes approved by agencies like the FDA, to ensure that their kibble is safe and nutritious.

However, if your dog just “wolfs” their kibble down and doesn’t chew very much, their teeth won’t get that beneficial abrasive action. And depending on your dog’s age, breed, and dental health, they might have a more difficult time eating dry dog food.

Advocates of fresh food diets claim that the naturally occurring enzymes in raw foods will keep plaque at bay. They say that the “fillers” in dry dog food are the source of the sugars and starches that lead to plaque buildup and dental problems. 

However, they also recommend giving dogs “meaty bones,” which are extremely hazardous to a dog’s dental health. In fact, gnawing on bones is one of the main causes of tooth fractures in dogs. And if a bone splinters, tiny pieces can get stuck in a dog’s gums, causing bleeding and gum infections.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Food for Your Dog 

Caloric Density

• Dry dog food is designed to be nutritionally dense, and because it’s packed with calories and vitamins, dogs don’t have to eat as much of it. Fresh foods also contain a lot of important nutrients, but the portions need to be a lot larger to match the nutritional value of kibble. 

Price

• “Human-grade” dog food comes with a human-grade price. And since the portions need to be larger, feeding your dog fresh food is going to cost a lot more. You also have to be very careful about how you store and serve fresh pet food. Because it contains no preservatives, the risk of contamination from mold or bacteria is much higher. You’ll have to buy fresh pet food more often, and you might end up throwing it away if it spoils.

So Which Diet Do Vets Recommend?

Advertisements for fresh pet food may seem convincing, but in all honesty, your dog doesn’t care too much what they’re eating as long as they get fed. And domestic dogs simply do not have the same nutritional requirements as their wolf ancestors—they’ve evolved differently, and should have no problem eating “filler” foods like oats and potatoes. Plus, fresh food diets can be dangerous because of the high risk of contamination.

When it comes to dental health, the best thing you can do for your dog is to brush their teeth every day and make sure they get a dental checkup once a year. And before you make any changes to your dog’s diet, ask your vet if you’re doing the right thing. 

The team at Anasazi Animal Clinic can advise you on nutrition, tooth brushing techniques, and preventive treatments to keep your dog’s teeth healthy and strong. So why not get a personalized recommendation? Contact us today to schedule a dental exam and nutrition consultation for your dog.

Photo by Jake Oates on Unsplash used with permission under the Creative Commons license for commercial use 4/5/2024. 

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Can Cats Eat Wheatgrass?

Yes—wheatgrass can be a healthy addition to your cat’s daily diet. It has fiber, which can help improve digestion and prevent constipation. It also has lots of essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, as well as nutrients like chlorophyll that aren’t typically found in cat food.  

If your cat has a gluten allergy or sensitivity, don’t worry. Wheatgrass does not contain any gluten, so it’s safe for all cats. The gluten is only in the grains of the wheat—eating the grass shoots won’t hurt them.

How Much Wheatgrass Is Good for Cats?

A small amount is best—a few blades of wheatgrass each day ought to be enough. Eating too much can cause stomach upset, so keep an eye on how much they’re consuming if you leave a tray of wheatgrass out for them to nibble on. If your cat tends to overdo their wheatgrass, you may need to start rationing it for them.

Besides its nutritional benefits, wheatgrass also provides sensory stimulation for cats. It smells good and it feels nice on their whiskers. If your cat is overeating their wheatgrass, it could be a sign of boredom and a need for more stimulating play. Make sure your cat has a nice window perch with a view, interactive toys to play with, and some dedicated one-on-one playtime with you every day. 

Wheatgrass for Healthier Teeth

Chewing on wheatgrass can help remove plaque and massage the gums, so it’s good for your cat’s dental health. Just remember that on its own, wheatgrass isn’t enough to keep your cat’s teeth clean. You’ll still want to try to brush your cat’s teeth on a regular basis, and take them to the vet for a dental exam at least once a year to prevent problems like tooth loss and tooth resorption.

How Do I Get My Cat to Eat Wheatgrass?

You can purchase a flat of wheatgrass shoots at your local health food market, or try growing it yourself from seed. You can let your cat graze at will (as long as they don’t eat too much) or pick a few shoots for them every day. Much like catnip, not all cats respond to wheatgrass. If your cat doesn’t go for wheatgrass, but you still want them to get all its nutritional benefits, you can chop it up and add it to their wet food.

Veterinary Dental Care for Cats in Gilbert, Arizona

Unless you’re a veterinarian, dental problems are difficult to detect in cats. They often suffer in silence, gradually losing their appetites because it hurts too much to chew. Cats need veterinary exams every year, even if they seem healthy. It gives their vet a chance to boost their vaccinations and make sure that their teeth and gums are in good shape. 

The doctors at Anasazi Animal Clinic will give your cat a thorough examination, and let you know if a teeth cleaning could improve their dental health. We can also answer all your questions about wheatgrass for cats in person. To make an appointment, give us a call at 480-497-0505 or send us a message online today.

Photo by Emma Elisabeth Gouskova Poey used with permission under the Creative Commons license for commercial use 3/27/2024. 

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The Importance of Pet Dental Care

Cats and dogs can’t brush their teeth on their own, so taking care of their dental health is up to us. Brushing your pet’s teeth at home and feeding them a healthy diet will help prevent tooth decay. Getting yearly dental checkups and teeth cleanings at the vet will help prevent tooth loss and the pain that leads up to it.

Cavities and gum disease can cause some extreme pain, leading to further problems like loss of appetite and behavioral changes. Dental infections can also spread throughout your pet’s body, causing internal infections, inflammation, and disease. Here’s how to protect your pet’s dental health so they can live a long and happy life.

Dental Health Basics for Dogs

The most common dental problems in dogs are bad breath and tooth fractures. Since bad breath is often one of the first signs of cavities and gum disease, “doggy breath” should never be ignored. If your dog’s breath constantly smells bad, it may be time for a trip to the vet for a teeth cleaning and exam.

To keep your dog’s teeth in good condition, try to brush them every day. Even once a week is better than no brushing at all. You should also be careful about what you allow your dog to chew—gnawing on things like sticks and bones could make your dog break a tooth. And don’t neglect your veterinary visits! Most dogs need to have their teeth cleaned at least once a year.

Dental Health Basics for Cats

In cats, the most common dental problems are gum disease and tooth resorption. Although the causes are unclear, tooth resorption affects as many as 60% of cats, and up to 75% of cats over the age of five. And some health problems, like feline diabetes, make cats more likely to suffer from poor dental health.

Problems like gum disease and tooth decay in cats can be prevented with good dental care. Brushing your cat’s teeth every day (or as often as you can) and taking them to the vet once a year for dental exams are the best ways to protect their dental health. And although they’re not a substitute for brushing, teeth-cleaning treats can help too.

The Best Dental Care for Cats and Dogs in Gilbert, Arizona

Bad breath and yellow teeth are some of the first signs of dental problems in pets. So before they start to feel pain from a dying tooth or gum disease, make an appointment with a trusted veterinary dentist. The doctors at Anasazi Animal Clinic will give your pet a thorough examination and let you know if they need a teeth cleaning or any other dental work. To make an appointment, give us a call at 480-497-0505 or send us a message online today.

Photo by Yan Laurichesse on Unsplash used with permission under the Creative Commons license for commercial use 2/20/2024.

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But since they use their teeth so much, dogs are also more prone to tooth fractures. In fact, broken teeth are one of the most common dental problems in dogs. Unfortunately, tooth fractures can also cause a lot of pain. Here’s how to tell if your dog has a broken tooth.

Dog Tooth Fractures Can Be Dangerous

Some chips and cracks are only superficial, and won’t cause your dog any pain. But if the tooth fracture exposes the dentin inside, it can lead to serious and extremely painful infections. Tooth fractures also allow infections to spread to other parts of a dog’s body. If the root of the tooth becomes infected, a tooth extraction and antibiotics may be necessary.

A Broken Tooth Is Extremely Painful

Dogs are usually pretty good at hiding their pain—it’s not until the pain becomes too extreme to bear that they start acting like something hurts. A tooth infection could make your dog lose interest in the toys and games they usually love. They might shy away from your touch when they were very affectionate before. Pain from a broken tooth can even make a dog refuse treats or stop eating altogether. 

Broken Tooth Symptoms in Dogs

• Loss of appetite or refusing to eat
• Whimpering when eating or chewing on one side
• Behavioral changes like shying away from touches on the face, refusing treats, or ignoring their favorite chew toys
• Drooling, bad breath, or bloody saliva
• Facial swelling, pawing at the mouth, or teeth grinding

When you brush your dog’s teeth, keep an eye out for obvious cracks and chips, and check for dark spots on their teeth as well. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, make an appointment with your vet. They’ll be able to tell you whether or not your dog has a broken tooth and advise you on the best treatment.

Dogs Need Dental Care, Too

It’s always a good idea to schedule a teeth cleaning for your dog at least once a year. Regular cleanings can prevent tooth decay, tooth loss, gum disease, and dangerous infections, sparing your dog a lot of pain. However, many people hesitate to schedule dental cleanings because they don’t want their pet to have to go under anesthesia. 

If you’re anxious about sedated dental care, it’s important to talk to a veterinarian that you trust. Teeth cleanings for dogs are a very common procedure, and a good vet will be able to answer all of your questions and put your mind at ease.

Expert Veterinary Dental Care in Gilbert, Arizona

Not only does Anasazi Animal Clinic offer superior veterinary dental care, we also have a reputation for kindness. We want all pets and their owners to feel safe in our clinic, and we treat all our patients with the same loving care that we give our own pets. If you would like to make an appointment, please send us a message or give us a call at 480-497-0505 today.

Photo by Camilo Fierro on Unsplash used with permission under the Creative Commons license for commercial use 1/16/2024.

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