Is your pet hiding a painful secret?

Signs of Dental Disease You Shouldn't Ignore

When we think about our pets’ health, we often think of shiny coats, wagging tails, and clear eyes — but how often do we think about what’s going on inside their mouths?

Dental disease is one of the most common yet overlooked health issues in dogs and cats. At Great Western Animal Hospital, we're on a mission to change that — because your pet's mouth matters more than you might realise.

Why (and How) Do Dogs Get Dental Disease?

Dental disease in pets usually begins with plaque - a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth after meals. If not removed, it hardens into tartar, which can creep below the gumline. This leads to inflammation (gingivitis), gum infections, and eventually painful conditions like tooth root abscesses or even jaw bone damage.

Factors such as breed, age, diet, and even chewing habits can all influence a pet's dental health. Small breed dogs and flat-faced pets are especially prone to issues because of crowded or misaligned teeth.

Is Dental Disease Really That Common?

In short - yes! By the age of three, more than 70% of cats and 80% of dogs show some signs of dental disease. The problem is, it’s often silent. Pets rarely stop eating just because their mouth hurts. Instead, they adapt — quietly enduring pain, often for months or even years.

That’s why regular checks are so important. At Great Western Animal Hospital, we offer free nurse dental checks — designed to catch problems early and keep your pet comfortable and happy.

What Are the Signs I Should Look For?

Dental disease in pets can sneak up quietly. Here are some tell-tale signs that your furry friend might be suffering:

• Bad breath (worse than normal “doggy breath”)

• Yellow or brown tartar on teeth

• Red or bleeding gums

• Pawing at the mouth or face

• Drooling (especially if it’s new or excessive)

• Difficulty eating or dropping food

• Facial swelling (in advanced cases)

If you're noticing any of these signs, it’s time to book a check. The earlier we catch it, the easier (and more affordable) it is to treat.

Are Dental Problems the Same in Pets and People?

While the causes might be similar — plaque, tartar, bacteria — pets and people experience dental disease quite differently. For one, pets won’t tell you their tooth hurts (unless it’s very severe). And unlike humans, they don’t brush their teeth twice a day (unless you’re a gold star pet parent!).

This makes prevention and regular professional cleaning even more crucial. Just like people, pets benefit from a combination of home care and dental visits.

What Can I Do to Treat Dental Disease?

If dental disease is diagnosed, a professional dental scale and polish under general anaesthetic is usually required. This allows us to clean under the gumline — where the real damage happens — and remove any infected or loose teeth.

After a dental procedure, your pet may need pain relief, and in some cases antibiotics. Our team will guide you through recovery and long-term care. 

How Can I Prevent Dental Disease From Progressing?

Prevention is always better (and less expensive) than cure. Here’s how you can help at home:

1. Brush your pet’s teeth daily.
Start with pet-safe toothpaste (never human) and a soft toothbrush or finger brush. If your pet’s unsure, we’ll happily show you how at your next check.

2. Feed a dental-specific diet.
Brands like Hill’s T/D or Royal Canin Dental use kibble texture and enzymes to reduce plaque.

3. Choose effective dental chews.
Greenies and Virbac chews are clinically proven to help — just make sure they’re the right size for your pet.

4. Add a water additive such as Oxyfresh or food topper such as Plaque Off. (both available for purchase in clinic)
Simple to use, these help disrupt plaque formation at a microbial level.

5. Skip the bones.
They’re more likely to break teeth or cause digestive issues than clean them. We recommend safe alternatives like beef strips for cats or large gnaw-only bones (never cooked).

Ready for a Smile Check?

If you’ve spotted any of the signs mentioned, or simply want peace of mind, book a free dental check with our nurses today. We’ll assess your pet’s teeth, recommend the best home care routine, and if needed, schedule a professional clean.

Because a healthy mouth means a healthier, happier life — and isn’t that what we all want for our pets?

Call us on 9631 9322 or book online to book your free nurse dental check.
Let’s keep those tails wagging and whiskers twitching - pain-free.