Most pet owners don't realize that signs of dental disease in pets can appear long before a tooth actually falls out. In fact, the majority of dogs and cats over the age of three already have some form of periodontal disease silently progressing beneath the gumline. Catching the warning signs early can save your pet from serious pain — and save you from costly emergency procedures down the road.
Bad Breath That Won't Go Away
A dog's bad breath is one of the earliest and most recognizable red flags for dental trouble. While no pet has minty-fresh breath, a persistent foul or unusually strong odor signals that bacteria are thriving in the mouth.
That smell is produced by bacterial colonies feeding on food debris and plaque along the gumline. Left unchecked, these bacteria can migrate below the gums, infecting tooth roots and even entering the bloodstream.
Cats are equally susceptible. A sudden change in your cat's breath — especially a sour or ammonia-like smell — warrants a closer look at their teeth and gums. If your cat is overdue for a general health check-up, browsing our cat health products is a good starting point for keeping them in top shape.
Changes in Eating Habits
When dental disease is present, eating becomes painful. You might notice your pet approaching the food bowl eagerly but then chewing slowly, dropping kibble, or tilting their head to one side while eating.
Some pets switch to swallowing food whole rather than chewing it. Others may refuse dry food entirely but still accept soft or wet meals. This selective eating is a strong indicator that something in the mouth hurts.
Weight loss can follow quickly, especially in smaller breeds. If your pet's appetite has changed and you've ruled out other causes, a dental issue is a likely culprit.
Quick tip: Lift your pet's lip once a week and take a quick look at their gums and back teeth. Early detection of redness, swelling, or tartar buildup makes treatment simpler and far less expensive.
Red, Swollen, or Bleeding Gums
Healthy gums should be pink and firm. If your pet's gums appear bright red, puffy, or bleed when they chew on a toy, gingivitis — the first stage of periodontal disease — has likely set in.
Gingivitis is reversible with proper dental care at this stage. However, once it progresses to periodontitis, the supporting structures around the teeth start to break down permanently.
Pay particular attention to the gumline around the upper back molars. This area tends to accumulate the most plaque and is where disease often begins in both dogs and cats.
Discolored Teeth and Visible Tartar
Yellow or brown buildup along the base of your pet's teeth is hardened plaque — also known as tartar or calculus. Once plaque mineralizes into tartar, it can't be brushed away at home and requires professional removal.
Tartar creates a rough surface that attracts even more bacteria, accelerating the cycle of dental disease. Over time, you may notice teeth that look grey, green, or even black, which can indicate the tooth pulp has died.
Cracked or fractured teeth are another visual clue. Dogs who are aggressive chewers are especially prone to tooth fractures, which expose sensitive inner layers to bacterial infection. Keeping your dog healthy overall — including staying on top of preventative dog health products — supports their immune system's ability to fight oral bacteria.
Behavioral Clues You Shouldn't Ignore
Pets are remarkably good at hiding pain. Subtle behavioral changes are often the only outward indication that dental disease has become serious.
Watch for excessive drooling, pawing at the face, reluctance to play with toys, or flinching when their muzzle is touched. Some dogs will rub one side of their face along furniture or carpet repeatedly.
Cats may become withdrawn, groom less, or develop a preference for sleeping in hidden spots. A cat that suddenly stops head-bunting or resists having their chin scratched may be experiencing oral pain.
In advanced cases, you might notice nasal discharge or swelling below one eye — signs that infection from a tooth root has spread into the surrounding bone. These situations require prompt attention.
Frequently Asked Questions
How early can dental disease develop in pets?
Dental disease can begin as early as two to three years of age in both dogs and cats. Smaller dog breeds and certain cat breeds tend to develop problems even sooner because of tooth crowding. Regular at-home mouth checks help you catch issues before they escalate.
Is bad breath in dogs always a sign of dental problems?
Not always, but persistent bad breath in dogs is one of the most common indicators of dental disease. In some cases it can also point to digestive or metabolic issues. If the odor doesn't improve with regular tooth brushing, it's worth investigating further.
Can I prevent dental disease at home?
Daily tooth brushing with a pet-safe toothpaste is the single most effective home prevention method. Dental chews and water additives can provide supplementary benefits. While home care significantly slows disease progression, professional dental cleanings are still an important part of long-term oral health.
Keeping your pet's mouth healthy is just one piece of overall wellness. If you've noticed any of these warning signs, schedule a check-up with your vet — and explore our full range of dog and cat health products to help keep your pet feeling their best between visits.