Gum Diseases of Pomeranians

Dr. Ron Hines, contributing author to the 2nd Chance website, says Pomeranians are especially susceptible to developing gum disease due to a combination of genetics and poor diet. The disease is especially dangerous in Pomeranians and other small dog breeds because the infection can easily spread to the heart and cause irreversible heart damage or death if left untreated. Periodontal disease occurs in four distinct stages.

  1. Periodontal Disease - Stage 1

    • Stage 1 is characterized by gingivitis, a tooth disease caused by a buildup of dental plaque along the gum line. The plaque turns into a hard yellowish substance called tartar, and it irritates the gums around the tooth. The gums become red and swollen.

      A veterinarian will sedate a dog with these symptoms to conduct a full dental examination. After checking the area between the gums and the teeth, he will place a red dye on the teeth to see the extent of the plaque buildup. X-rays may also be necessary to identify any severe problems such as abscesses, according to Pet Place.

      The veterinarian will treat gingivitis with a procedure called ultrasonic scaling or cleaning the teeth above and under the gum line. He will also polish the teeth to reverse the effects of gingivitis.

    Periodontal Disease - Stage 2

    • Plaque continues to build up above and below the gum line during stage 2. Because the teeth in this stage will still be reasonably healthy, the condition can be effectively treated by preventing further plaque growth and scraping away the plaque that has already accumulated. Pet MD says stage 2 usually involves a 25 percent loss of tooth attachment to the gum.

    Periodontal Disease - Stage 3

    • By stage 3, the teeth have become detached from the gum. Steven Holstrom of the World Small Animal Veterinary Association says receding gums expose the roots. Some of the teeth may already be loose and the dog's gums will bleed if the veterinarian presses against them.

      X-rays will show a heavy accumulation of tartar buildup below the gum line and a small amount of bone loss. Pet MD says there is usually a 25 to 30 percent attachment loss between the teeth and gum, which indicates that the teeth are loosening in the dog's mouth.

    Periodontal Disease - Stage 4

    • Stage 4 is characterized by severe swelling and inflammation, easy bleeding and a breakdown of the tissues that hold the teeth in place. The gum has pulled away from the teeth and the roots are exposed. According to Holstrom, the teeth will be loose and the pockets around the teeth will contain pus.

      By this stage, the teeth will be very loose; according to Dr. Hines, the diseased teeth will need to be pulled for the health of the animal. Antibiotics will be necessary to clear up the oral infection.