Did you know that 80% of dogs aged 3 and older suffer from bad breath? While often overlooked, oral health issues can escalate and potentially impact vital organs, including the heart and kidneys. Learn to recognize the warning signs, discover effective treatment options, and find out essential prevention tips every pet owner needs to know.

Dental tartar is more than just a cosmetic issue; it’s a serious health risk. It begins with food debris and bacteria mixing with saliva to form plaque, which eventually hardens into stubborn tartar. This buildup causes persistent toothaches, severe bad breath (halitosis), and painful gingivitis.

In this case, the patient was brought to us suffering from significant abdominal pain and a distended stomach. To identify the root cause, our veterinary team performed a CT Scan to get a detailed view of the internal organs. The results revealed that the dog was suffering from Hydronephrosis. Hydronephrosis is a condition characterized by the swelling of the kidneys due to a buildup of fluid and urine. This occurs when the kidneys are unable to function or drain properly, often leading to systemic fluid retention. Early and precise diagnosis through advanced imaging is critical to managing this condition and preventing further renal damage

In this case, a vigilant owner noticed her pet had a fractured tooth and immediately rushed to see our dental specialists. To ensure the highest safety standards, the medical team performed a comprehensive physical exam, blood tests, and a cardiac screening. These essential steps were taken to prepare the patient for safe anesthesia and a successful dental filling procedure.