Dr James Greenwood, a TV vet on BBC's Morning Live, has warned dog owners about a painful dental problem that can be easy to miss. He shared advice in a Petplan video on Instagram, where he has over 50,000 followers. In the clip, Dr Greenwood explains what he checks during a dental exam and the warning signs that should prompt a vet visit.
What Signs Should Dog Owners Look For?
Dr Greenwood said: "First of all, I'm looking at their gums. I'm looking for any redness, any signs of swollen gums, which could indicate that there's some gum disease. Secondly, it's the tartar, that yellow staining. That's not just staining. That can indicate that we've got a mix of bacteria and protein building on the tooth surface, which needs to be scaled away because that can eventually damage the tooth structure itself.
"Thirdly, it's broken or wobbly teeth, which need immediate veterinary attention because that's an incredibly painful condition for dogs and they will still eat despite that level of pain. So definitely get that checked out."
The vet added: "And lastly, it's that doggy bad breath. It is a real thing. And unfortunately, that normally means that there is an infection looming somewhere. So with a quick trip to the doggy dentist, you can keep your canine's canines in tip top condition. And that is definitely something to smile about."
Is Dental Disease Common in Dogs?
Advice on the RSPCA website says: "Keeping your dog's teeth clean is important, as ignoring it can lead to plaque build-up and dental problems. Dental disease is very common in dogs, second only to ear infections, and can be extremely uncomfortable - much as it would be for us."
The guidance continues: "If you find your dog has dental disease, only carry out treatment under the direction of your vet. Your dog will most likely need sedation or a general anaesthetic to properly examine their mouth. X-rays might also be taken to reveal any abnormalities of the tooth or bone. If the affected teeth aren't too bad, they would be scaled and polished to remove mineral deposits. With more severe cases, such as fractured or loose teeth, they may need to be removed."
