It is not uncommon for older dogs to suffer tooth loss. After all, they have had this one set of teeth since their post-puppy stage of life, and most dogs live a very long time. Still, tooth loss can happen in younger dogs, especially those with poor diets and those that have been abused or neglected. There are plenty of stories of rescued dogs that come into veterinary clinics for health checkups. They may come in via animal control trucks, or they may visit as rescued animals of new owners. These stories tell of dogs with terrible oral hygiene, and what happens next. 

A Couple of Bad Teeth Made for a Snarly Dog

Besides being neglected, other things can make a dog unpleasant. Toothaches and bad teeth definitely make a dog snarly and surly. The dog that has a couple of bad teeth bothering it may even growl at a new owner for months until the new owner figures out that the dog might have a tooth problem. Taking the dog into the vet results in the surgical removal of the rotten teeth, and after some antibiotics and time to heal, the dog's temperament turns right around. He/she becomes the nicest lap dog and/or family pet ever. 

All the Teeth Had to Go

Poor quality dog food accompanied with bad oral hygiene means that this pooch had a whole mouth of bad teeth. There was no way to make the problem better. The vet removed all of the rotten teeth during surgery. The dog had to switch to a special soft food diet and dry kibble had to be soaked with water for the dog to eat. 

Dog Orthodontia

Everyone laughs at the cat or dog that has a fang that sticks out over a top or bottom lip. While it may be funny to see, it unfortunately indicates a malocclusion in the cat's or dog's jaw and bite. It makes it very difficult for the animal to chew and keep food in its mouth, which can lead to malnutrition. Dog dentistry services can remove the fang or correct the bite. That is why there are animal dentistry clinics that provide orthodontics and braces (no joke!) for dogs as well as some cats. These devices slowly help the pet's bite and jaws move back into proper position, so that the animal can bite, chew, and eat, making for a happier and more enjoyable dog.