Regular dental care can reduce the chances of your pet falling victim to tooth pain. However, even with a daily cleaning routine, your dog can still develop a tooth abscess. Pain from a tooth abscess can significantly reduce the quality of your pet’s life. If not quickly and properly treated, it can also threaten the long-term health of your pet. Searching the internet for a "veterinarian near me" can bring back a long list of results. Since 1994, Richfield Animal Hospital has successfully serviced the dental needs of pet families in the Etobicoke, ON region.
What is a Tooth Abscess?
An abscess is visible proof of your immune system in action. When harmful bacteria can enter the skin, the immune system attacks the invader with white blood cells. The abscess is created as cells surrounding the affected site die off to keep the infection from spreading. In the case of a tooth abscess, surrounding cells swell with pus, bacteria, and blood, creating a bump of varying sizes. Depending on the location, a tooth abscess can cause:
- Severe pain that radiates throughout the neck, shoulders, ears, and skull
- Sensitivity to temperature
- Pain while eating or chewing
- Difficulty swallowing and breathing
The presence of an abscess also creates a fever as the body tries to free itself from infection. Unable to eat properly, the side effects of malnutrition combined with a high fever can be dangerous, especially for older pets or those with existing medical conditions.
Signs of Tooth Abscess
Prompt treatment from a professional reduces your dog's pain as well as the likelihood of further health complications. Contact Richfield Animal Hospital as soon as you notice the signs of a tooth abscess, which include:
- Bad breath
- Bleeding or swollen gums
- Excessive drooling
- Swollen face or outer jaw
- White bumps on the gums
When your pup is in pain, watch out for guarding behaviors. Your usually loving and compliant pet may struggle, snap, or even bite when you try to examine it. Stay calm, be compassionate, and make an appointment at Richfield Animal Hospital right away.
Contact Our Animal Hospital for Tooth Abscess Treatment in Etobicoke, ON
Don't wait for your pet to develop a painful tooth abscess. Schedule an appointment with our pet dentistry team at Richfield Animal Hospital today. From preventative care to full oral surgery, we have the services and expertise to keep your pet healthy and strong. For more information or to schedule an appointment with our veterinarian, call us today at (416) 245-8805.
