Recognizing the Signs of Oral Pain in Pets
Pets are experts at hiding pain, and oral discomfort can be particularly difficult to detect. Unlike more obvious issues like a limp, skin rash, or eye injury, dental pain often goes unnoticed until it becomes severe. That’s why it’s up to us, as their advocates, to recognize the subtle signs and seek veterinary care before their condition worsens.
Signs Your Pet May Be Experiencing Oral Pain
✔️ Increased Drooling or Salivation – Excessive drooling, sometimes tinged with blood, can indicate dental disease, gum irritation, or an infected tooth.
✔️ Decreased Activity or Drooped Head/Ears – Many pet owners assume a decrease in energy is just a sign of aging, but it could be due to chronic pain. A pet with oral pain may appear less interactive, reluctant to play, or hesitant to engage in normal activities.
✔️ Pawing at the Mouth or Face Rubbing – Pets experiencing oral discomfort may rub their face against furniture, paw at their mouth, or avoid being touched on the head or muzzle.
✔️ Mouth Chattering or Jaw Trembling – This is a strong indicator of tooth sensitivity or nerve pain caused by severe dental disease, a fractured tooth, or oral infections.
✔️ Aggression or Avoidance – A previously friendly pet may suddenly become reactive when their face is touched, growl when chewing, or show aggression toward people or other pets—especially if they get too close to their mouth.
✔️ Chewing on One Side or Avoiding Chew Toys – If your pet suddenly favors one side of their mouth when chewing or loses interest in chew toys and hard treats, it could mean they are avoiding pain on the affected side. Try offering a chew on the opposite side—if they always switch, it may be a sign of discomfort.
✔️ Changes in Eating Behavior – A pet that hesitates to eat, picks up food and drops it, chews slowly, or refuses crunchy kibble may be in pain. Skipping meals is especially concerning, as it takes severe discomfort for an animal to ignore their natural instinct to eat.
What Causes Oral Pain in Pets?
Several conditions can lead to oral pain and discomfort in pets, including:
Periodontal Disease – The most common cause of oral pain in pets, affecting up to 80% of dogs and 70% of catsby age three. It leads to gum inflammation, infection, bone loss, and tooth instability.
Fractured or Worn-Down Teeth – Chewing on hard objects like antlers, bones, or rocks can fracture teeth, exposing the sensitive pulp inside.
Tooth Resorption (Common in Cats) – A painful condition where the tooth structure slowly dissolves, leading to severe discomfort and difficulty eating.
Oral Masses & Tumors – Any abnormal growth in the mouth should be evaluated as it may be benign or malignant.
Stomatitis (Common in Cats) – A severe immune response to oral bacteria that causes intense inflammation and pain.
Retained or Impacted Teeth – If a puppy or kitten’s baby teeth don’t fall out properly, it can cause crowding, infection, and misalignment.
Abscesses or Infections – Untreated dental infections can lead to painful swelling, pus formation, and damage to surrounding tissues and bone.
What Should You Do If You Suspect Your Pet Has Oral Pain?
If you notice any of the above signs, don’t wait—schedule a veterinary dental evaluation as soon as possible! Early intervention can prevent more serious complications and relieve your pet’s pain before it worsens.
At Pet Dental Center, we specialize in diagnosing and treating oral health conditions in pets. Our team is equipped with advanced imaging, minimally invasive treatments, and expert surgical care to restore your pet’s comfort and quality of life.
If your pet is showing signs of oral pain, contact us today to schedule an evaluation!