Gum Diseases in Dogs

Gingivitis

• Gingivitis is a common reason for redness, swelling and inflammation to occur in the gums. It is caused by a buildup of excess plaque and bacteria. Gingivitis is one of the main causes of additional oral issues such as periodontal disease and tooth loss. Treatment for canine gingivitis includes cleaning the teeth thoroughly above and below the gum line. Tooth polishing can help stop and, in some cases, reverse gingivitis. Fortunately, this oral disease can be prevented with proper daily brushing and regular checkups with your veterinarian.

Periodontal Disease

• Periodontal disease occurs when the bacteria collects around the gum line and plaque is allowed to build up. Plaque turns into tarter that forms pockets of growth around the teeth below the gum line. Eventually, infections occur, the tooth can become loose, abscesses can form, bone loss can occur, and it will cause a great deal of pain to your dog. Once this occurs, the condition is irreversible. Treating periodontal disease will vary based on the severity of your dog's condition. In minor cases, cleaning and polishing will be performed. In more severe cases, the tooth may need to be removed.

Gum Disease

• Gum disease is characterized by bad breath, oral tumors, inflamed gums, drooling and damaged teeth. Some dogs may also display signs of pain such as crying during feeding time or display a total unwillingness to eat hard foods. Just as with other oral conditions, gum disease can be prevented through regular brushing and veterinary exams. If the teeth are not properly cleaned, your dog can develop additional conditions afflicting the oral cavity, which can lead to serious conditions such as kidney disease, heart disease and more.

Stomatitis

• Like other oral diseases, stomatitis occurs when the gums become inflamed or irritated; however, stomatitis can include inflammation of the tongue as well. Symptoms of stomatitis include bad breath, pain, plaque, drooling, fluid buildup within the gums and pain. It can occur due to overcrowding of the teeth, metabolic disorders, diabetes, hormones, lymphoma, infections and injuries. Medications are used to reduce inflammation, accompanied by dental cleaning in order to treat the condition. In severe cases, the teeth may need to be removed.

Salivary Mucocele

• Swelling of the soft tissues in the dog's mouth can be due to salivary mucocele. Salivary mucocele causes swelling that is similar in appearance to a sack filled with mucus. Symptoms can include swelling of the face and oral cavity, blood in the saliva, pressure and pain, soft masses in the neck and difficulty breathing or swallowing. It can be caused by trauma to the face, foreign objects in the mouth, bite wounds or surgery of the ear canal. Treatment includes draining the fluid and antibiotics to prevent any infections from occurring.