Older Dogs & Loose Teeth

To no surprise, dogs have dental issues which require dental care.

Dental care should be a high priority when properly caring for a dog.

Unfortunately, many pet owners do not often examine a dog’s teeth and gums as they should. Therefore, it may be challenging to notice loose teeth. There are many underlying causes of loose teeth in dogs.

Please do not worry! A loose tooth is not always something that you need to be concerned with. It is usual for a puppy to lose teeth as they grow older. This is because puppies are born without teeth and remain toothless for the first few weeks. Usually, when a puppy turns six or seven, all of its baby teeth are gone, and 42 teeth have emerged.

Now, let’s talk about the vital part of this article. How can you spot a loose tooth in an older dog?

Redness or bleeding along the gum line

Nasal discharge

Bad breath

Excessive drooling

Facial swelling

Loss of appetite

Pain or tenderness in the mouth

Pawing at the mouth

Remember that losing baby teeth is a normal part of a dog’s life.

Unfortunately, losing adult teeth can be a sign of advanced gum disease, which can be extremely painful to dogs. Often, a loose tooth in an adult dog requires veterinary attention. The vet will perform an exam which may lead to tooth extraction under anesthesia. Prevention is vital when it comes to loose teeth. Do your best to ensure your dog is getting an annual veterinary exam with preventative dental cleanings. Daily teeth brushing should also be included in your daily routine!