Canine Gum Disease Treatments:
Gum disease is a very common condition in young dogs. The incidence of gum diseases is higher in dogs who are over two to three years of age. Those breeds that are smaller in size are also especially susceptible because the bone that holds the teeth is thinner. This makes their gums prone to the disease. Dog gum disease is also often collectively known as periodontal disease. These diseases are characterized by the inflammation of the gums and changes in the structures that support the teeth. Apart from the periodontal diseases, dogs are also prone to developing dog gum cancer.
Dog gum growth is not unlike humans and therefore most of the problems are also similar. Just as in humans, most of the gum problems in dogs are caused when food particles get lodged in between the teeth. The lodged particles finally form plaque and later get hardened to form tartar. Tartar forms a hard layer on the teeth and discolors the teeth. If the amount of tartar formed is a lot, it can begin to irritate the gums causing gingivitis which is a condition characterizing the inflammation of gums. Gingivitis causes the gums to redden and become soft. It can also cause dog bad breath.
If the tartar is still not removed, it begins to grow and separate the teeth from the gums to form pocket-like spaces where more bacteria begin to grow. It can cause a dog abscess tooth which causes irreversible damage to the gums and teeth. At this point of time, the bacteria may start attacking the mouth causing dog mouth abscess. Eventually, the infection can grow much worse and the dog may lose all the teeth.
Causes of Gum Diseases in Dogs:
- Age of the dogs and their medical history is one of the most important factors for canine gum disease.
- Dog diet is also important and so is the dog’s chewing behavior.
- Breed is another consideration because smaller dog breeds have different bone structure in their gums.
- Tooth alignment of some dogs is genetically misshaped. This could cause lodging of food materials and formation of tartar.
- Grooming habits and care at home.
Dog Gum Disease Symptoms:
- Formation of pus around the tooth
- Foul breath
- Soft gums that bleed often
- Dog feels sensitive in the and around the mouth
- Constant itching in the mouth which causes the dog to scratch with the paws
- Receding gums that may be red and inflamed
- Loosing of teeth and formation of abscesses
- Change in eating patterns and rejection of food
- Frequent stomach upsets
- Excessive canine drooling
- Problems and pain in chewing.
Dog Gum Disease Treatment:
Usually, surgery is the only treatment for this condition, however sometimes the dog is given antibiotics before any dental procedures are performed on it.