Dental Problems in Dogs: Symptoms, Causes, and Prevention

Our dogs use their mouths for almost everything: eating, playing, exploring, even showing affection. That’s why good oral health is vital to their overall wellbeing. Unfortunately, dental disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. Research from the Royal Veterinary College found that around 1 in 8 (12.5%) of dogs in the UK are affected by dental disease (RVC, 2021). 

While this may seem worrying, most dental issues develop gradually, and can easily be prevented or managed with simple, consistent care. This guide explains the most common dental problems in dogs, including what causes them, the signs to look for, and how to keep your dog’s mouth healthy and pain-free.

In this guide:

1. What is dental disease in dogs?
2. What causes dental problems in dogs?
3. Common dental problems in dogs
4. Less common dental issues
5. How do I know if my dog has dental problems?
6. Possible complications of untreated dental disease
7. When to see a vet
8. How dental problems in dogs are diagnosed and treated
9. Tips for preventing dental issues

What is dental disease in dogs?

“Dental disease” is an umbrella term that describes conditions affecting the teeth, gums, and supporting structures of the mouth. These range from mild gingivitis (early gum inflammation) to advanced periodontitis (irreversible loss of tooth support).

These issues affect us humans too, but these problems go unnoticed in dogs much longer. We have the responsibility as owners to check and care for our pets’ teeth to keep them happy and healthy. 

What causes dental problems in dogs?

The root cause of most dental issues is bacterial plaque, which forms naturally after meals. When plaque isn’t brushed away, it hardens into tartar, irritating the gums and creating a breeding ground for more bacteria. Over time, this leads to inflammation and damage to teeth and gum tissue.

Key risk factors include:

• Breed and size: Small and toy breeds are more prone to conditions like gum disease because their teeth are often crowded in smaller jaws.
• Age: Dental problems become more common as dogs get older, with plaque and tartar building up over time.
• Body condition: Overweight dogs may have higher levels of inflammation, which can worsen gum disease.
• Diet and brushing: Soft diets and infrequent toothbrushing allow plaque to build up faster.
• Lack of professional dental care: Long gaps between professional cleanings mean tartar and bacteria can progress below the gum line, where brushing can’t reach.

Common dental problems in dogs

Periodontal disease

Periodontal disease (PD) is one of the most common dental problems in dogs, though some researchers estimate this figure to be much higher. It develops when plaque hardens into tartar, leading to sore, inflamed gums and tissue damage around the teeth. Untreated gum disease in dogs can cause tooth loss, mouth pain, and difficulty chewing.

Research shows that smaller dog breeds (those under 15kg) are up to five times more likely to develop periodontal disease than other larger breeds (over 25kg). Breeds most affected in the UK include Toy Poodles, Greyhounds, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. 

Most dogs recover well after a professional clean under anaesthetic to remove plaque and tartar, but more advanced cases sometimes require tooth removal.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is the early, mild stage of gum disease (PD) and is reversible if caught early. It’s caused by plaque buildup along the gum line, which leads to redness, swelling, and bad breath. Thankfully, daily brushing, dental chews, and regular professional cleans can usually restore gum health before it progresses to periodontitis and permanent damage occurs.

Tooth fractures

Dogs sometimes fracture their teeth by chewing hard items like bones, antlers, or stones. Fractures expose the sensitive inner part of the tooth, which can be very painful and lead to infection. If your dog has a broken tooth, you may notice that they become sensitive around their mouth or reluctant to eat. Your vet may recommend a root canal to save the tooth or an extraction to relieve pain and prevent infection.

Retained baby teeth

Some dogs, especially toy breeds, keep their baby teeth when their adult teeth come through. This can cause overcrowding, misalignment, and trapped food, increasing the risk of decay. Your vet will usually remove these retained teeth under anaesthetic to keep your dog’s mouth healthy.

Tooth abscesses

An abscess is a painful infection at the tooth root, often caused by gum disease or a broken tooth. When your dog has an abscess, they can develop swelling on the face or under the eye, a fever, or discharge from the mouth. Treatment usually involves antibiotics, pain relief, and removing or draining the affected tooth.

Less common dental issues

Tooth decay (cavities): Tooth decay is rare in dogs but can develop when bacteria erode the tooth’s enamel. Affected teeth may appear discoloured or pitted and are usually treated by cleaning or extraction.

Malocclusion (bad bite): Malocclusion happens when a dog’s teeth or jaws don’t line up properly, leading to uneven wear or gum irritation. It’s more common in short-nosed breeds like Bulldogs or in dogs with retained baby teeth. Mild cases may not need treatment, while severe ones may require tooth removal or dental correction to prevent discomfort.

Enamel defects: These occur when the enamel doesn’t form properly, leaving teeth rough or discoloured. Causes can include illness, poor diet, or high fever during puppyhood. Regular brushing and professional dental care help protect affected teeth and prevent further wear.

Tooth resorption: This painful condition occurs when the body begins breaking down a tooth from within, often below the gum line. It’s more common in older dogs and can cause sensitivity or drooling. Your vet may need to perform an extraction to relieve pain.

Oral tumours: Though uncommon, tumours can appear as lumps, bleeding, or swelling in the mouth. Some are harmless, while others can be serious, so any new growth should be checked by a vet. Treatment depends on the type but often involves surgical removal.

How do I know if my dog has dental problems?

The RVC’s research highlights that dogs rarely show obvious signs of pain and often keep eating even when their mouths are sore - meaning dental problems can silently worsen over time. Look out for the following symptoms:

• Persistent bad breath
• Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
• Yellow or brown tartar on teeth
• Drooling or chewing on one side
• Pawing at the mouth or face
• Loose or missing teeth
• Swelling around the jaw
• Reluctance to eat or play with toys

Possible complications of untreated dental disease

If dental issues go untreated, they don’t just cause mouth pain - they can affect your dog’s overall health. 

Chronic inflammation allows bacteria to enter the bloodstream, which can lead to heart, liver, and kidney disease. Ongoing pain may also cause weight loss, poor nutrition, or changes in behaviour, such as irritability or reduced playfulness.

Fortunately, regular dental care and early treatment can prevent these complications completely.

When to see a vet

It’s a good idea to book an appointment with your vet if you notice any of the telltale symptoms of dental problems and disease, like persistent bad breath, bleeding or swollen gums, loose teeth, or reluctance to eat. Ideally, dogs should have their mouths examined at least once a year to ensure that any potential problems are diagnosed and treated early.

Important: Any injury or trauma to the mouth or teeth should be treated as a dental emergency, and you should take your dog to the vet as soon as possible. 

How dental problems in dogs are diagnosed and treated

A full dental assessment requires an examination under general anaesthetic, allowing vets to inspect below the gum line and take dental X-rays. This helps identify hidden problems like root abscesses or bone loss.

Treatments for dental issues in dogs depends on the diagnosis but can include:

• Professional dental cleaning under anaesthetic to remove plaque and tartar above and below the gum line.
• Extractions for damaged or infected teeth.
• Antibiotics and pain relief when infection or inflammation is present.
• Periodontal surgery in advanced cases to save teeth and restore gum tissue.

These are routine, safe veterinary procedures designed to restore comfort and prevent recurrence. Your vet may also advise a follow-up treatment pathway/routine so you can maintain your dog’s oral health at home. 

Did you know? Some Animal Friends dog insurance policies help to cover eligible dental treatments for illness or injury. Check your policy for details.

Tips for preventing dental issues

Prevention is far easier (and less stressful) than treatment. Here’s how to protect your dog’s pearly whites at home:

1. Daily toothbrushing

Regular brushing with a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste is the gold standard for preventing plaque. Though dental sticks can help reduce some plaque, research shows that daily brushing is up to three times more effective than relying on dental chews or diets alone. View our guide to cleaning your dog’s teeth for more tips on tackling toothbrushing.

2. Be cautious about bones

While many dogs love to chew bones, very hard ones can cause painful tooth fractures - and cooked bones are even riskier, as they may splinter and cause internal damage. If you do decide to give your dog a bone, always supervise them and speak to your vet first.

3. Balance their diet

Another way to prevent dental issues in dogs is to mix up their meals. Feeding them only soft or wet food can allow plaque to build up more easily, whereas including dry kibble helps gently clean teeth and keeps their jaw muscles strong. You can also ask your vet about specific dental diets for your dog that can help to slow tartar build up.  

4. Regular veterinary dental checks

The American Animal Hospital Association recommends professional cleaning by one year of age for small to medium breeds, and by two years for larger dogs. Rechecks are generally recommended every 6–12 months. These cleanings remove plaque below the gum line and allow your vet to detect early issues before they cause your pooch any pain.

5. Watch for subtle signs

Bad breath, bleeding gums, or changes in eating habits can all signal early dental disease. If your dog resists brushing or seems uncomfortable, book a vet appointment to rule out any problems.

Conclusion

Dental problems in dogs are fairly common, but with knowledge and consistency, they’re largely preventable. Regular brushing, safe chews, a balanced diet, and professional vet care can make a huge difference.

Healthy teeth mean a happier, more energetic dog, and fresher breath for those cuddles, too. Get more pet care tips on our Dog Advice hub, or browse related articles below.

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