Gum Diseases in Dogs

Dental and gum care in dogs is not always complete and regular. While some breeds may be prone to dental and gum diseases, these diseases can occur in all dogs regardless of breed and age. Gum diseases are among the most common health problems in dogs, and according to research, the situation is quite serious; it is predicted that almost 90% of dogs will develop various gum diseases by the age of 2. In this article, you can find answers to frequently asked questions about gum diseases in dogs.

What is Gum Disease in Dogs?

Gum disease in dogs can be considered a progressive disease caused by bacteria in the mouth, damaging the gums, other supporting structures of the teeth, and bone. Symptoms of gum disease may appear slowly, and the disease progresses before it causes noticeable complaints. Therefore, preventive dental care for dogs should not be neglected. You can access our article on Dental Care and Brushing in Dogs here.

Why Does Gum Disease Occur in Dogs?

The most fundamental cause of gum disease in dogs is plaque formation. Plaques contain bacteria that threaten gum health. These plaques, which form when teeth are not brushed for 24 hours, mineralize and turn into tartar if teeth are not brushed for 3 days. Tartar, also known as dental plaque, causes changes in the enamel structure of the tooth, leading to more plaque formation. As a result of all these formations, gingivitis begins in dogs. If gingivitis in dogs is left untreated, it can progress and lead to more serious problems.

What are the Symptoms of Gum Disease in Dogs?

The symptoms of gum disease in dogs are quite varied. In some dogs, the symptoms of gum disease are not apparent. They may have perfectly white and complete teeth, but a detailed examination and imaging methods can reveal the presence of gum disease. Therefore, it is important not to neglect dental and gum examinations during regular veterinary visits. As mentioned earlier, some dogs may not show noticeable signs of gum disease, but this is not true for every dog ​​and every disease. The symptoms of diseases can vary depending on the stage of the disease; the stage of the disease can also vary in different areas of the gums. Symptoms of gum disease in dogs are primarily examined in four distinct stages. Stage 1 is gingivitis, or inflammation of the gums. When dogs have gum inflammation, there is no bone or tooth loss yet. In some cases, subtle weakness and pain may be observed in dogs. Gum bleeding during chewing or brushing, gum swelling, gum redness, and bad breath are among the stage-specific symptoms. The earlier gum inflammation is diagnosed in dogs, the easier and more effective the treatment process will be. Thus, the progression of the disease and its potential consequences can be prevented. In the first stage, treatment for gum disease in dogs may require maintaining oral hygiene and using mild antibiotics. It is important to plan treatment processes specifically for each dog. Medication should be used as recommended by veterinarians. You can access our content titled "Things to Consider When Using Antibiotics in Dogs" here. From the second stage onwards, the supporting structures of the tooth begin to be damaged. In this stage, dogs experience the same symptoms as in the first stage, such as swollen gums and bleeding gums. However, the symptoms can worsen, and gum recession may occur. In the third stage, gum recession in dogs can reach a moderate level, and tooth loss may also occur. In the final stage, in addition to all these symptoms, pus may begin to drain from around the tooth. When gum disease in dogs reaches the final stage, tooth extraction becomes necessary. In addition to causing physical symptoms, gum disease in dogs can also lead to behavioral changes. Dogs that normally don't object to having their teeth brushed may avoid this grooming process because their gums hurt, they may refuse to eat dry food, stop playing with chew toys, become withdrawn, and exhibit aggressive behavior.

1. Stage 1 is gingivitis, or inflammation of the gums. In dogs with gingivitis, bone or tooth loss is not yet present. In some cases, subtle weakness and pain may be observed. Gum bleeding during chewing or brushing, swollen gums, red gums, and bad breath are characteristic symptoms of this stage. The earlier gingivitis is diagnosed in dogs, the easier and more effective the treatment process will be. This will prevent the disease from progressing and potentially causing serious consequences. Treatment for stage 1 gingivitis in dogs may require maintaining oral hygiene and using mild antibiotics. Therefore, it is important to plan treatment processes specifically for each dog. Medication should be used as recommended by a veterinarian. You can access our content titled "Things to Consider When Using Antibiotics in Dogs" here.

From stage 2 onwards, the supporting structures of the tooth begin to be damaged. In this stage, dogs also experience the same symptoms as in the first stage, such as swollen gums and bleeding gums. However, the symptoms can worsen, and the gums may recede. In stage 3, gum recession in dogs can reach a moderate level, and tooth loss may also occur. In the final stage, in addition to all these symptoms, pus may begin to drain from around the tooth. When gum disease in dogs reaches the final stage, tooth extraction becomes necessary.

In addition to causing physical symptoms, gum disease in dogs can also lead to behavioral changes. Dogs that normally don't object to having their teeth brushed may avoid this grooming process because their gums hurt, they may avoid eating dry food, they may stop playing with chew toys, they may become withdrawn, and they may exhibit aggressive behavior.

Another symptom of gum disease in dogs is blackening of the gums. We want to elaborate on this a little more.

Blackening of Gums in Dogs

Blackening of gums in dogs can become a source of concern for many people. When blackening of a dog's gums is observed, one should not panic immediately. Some dogs have a natural black pigment in their gums. This genetically inherited condition should not be considered a problem. In fact, while some dogs may have completely black tongues and gums, others may have black spots or patches on their gums.

Even without a genetic predisposition to black gums, gum discoloration in dogs becomes a cause for concern, as it can be indicative of several underlying health problems. Gum disease, gingivitis, a skin disease called Acanthosis Nigricans, gum tumors, and melanoma, a type of oral tumor, can all lead to gum discoloration in dogs.

Are Some Dogs More Prone to Gum Disease?

Yes, some breeds have a higher risk of developing gum disease. Small breeds and brachycephalic breeds (those with flat noses) may experience an increased incidence of gum disease. However, breed is not the only risk factor for these diseases. Poor oral and dental hygiene, as well as factors such as the shape of a dog's mouth, can also trigger the development of periodontal disease.

What Happens If Gum Disease in Dogs Is Not Treated?

If gum disease in dogs is left untreated, it can cause serious pain and threaten their overall health. When gum disease is left untreated:

• Gum inflammation in dogs can damage the bone supporting the teeth and lead to jaw fractures.
• Gum disease can lead to the formation of tooth root abscesses, which can cause open sores on the cheeks or jaws of dogs.
• Tooth root inflammation can affect the eyes, and if this is not noticed quickly, it can cause vision loss in dogs.
• Bacteria and harmful inflammatory compounds in dogs' mouths can enter the bloodstream and spread throughout the body, causing damage to various organs. Gum disease can affect organs such as the kidneys, liver, and heart.

Gum Disease in Dogs is Preventable

Gum disease in dogs is common but also preventable. Regular brushing of pets' teeth is of great importance. The selection of dog-specific toothbrushes and toothpaste should be done correctly. It is also necessary to not neglect veterinary check-ups, to feed them with quality food, and to choose toys that support dental health. You can review dog oral care products here.