Signs of Gum Disease in Dogs

Dental care for dogs is too often overlooked, but it’s vitally important for their overall health and well-being. The teeth and gums can affect eating habits, and even sometimes lead to behavioral problems in animals if oral health is ignored.

What Is Gum Disease in Dogs?

If oral health is ignored for too long of a period, gum disease, or periodontal disease, can develop. This progressive disease can cause lasting damage to a dog’s teeth, gums, mouth, and jaw which can alter the supporting structure of a dog’s oral cavities and lead to uncomfortable symptoms. If you are concerned your dog may have gum disease, pay attention to these common signs and symptoms.

Sign #1

Bad Breath

Typically, the first sign of disease progression in dogs is bad breath. However, pay attention to whether the bad breath is only due to a potent-smelling food they recently ate or if the breath chronically smells bad. If your dog consistently has bad breath, this could be a sign of excess bacterial overgrowth in the mouth due to gum disease.

Sign #2

Bleeding Gums

Similar to humans with gum disease, bleeding gums can also be a common sign of poor oral health. Bleeding gums are typically a sign of gingivitis, which can progress into gum disease if left untreated.

Sign #3

Red and Inflamed Gums

While all gums have a pink tint, if they become too dark red this is a common sign of gum disease and inflammation. This color change could be due to a vitamin deficiency, hormonal changes, or a weakened immune system, but it is most frequently a key sign that gingivitis has progressed too far into gum disease in dogs.

Sign #4

Receding Gums

Receding gums are typically a sign of a bone infection or gum disease left untreated. When this occurs, the roots of the teeth may become exposed as the gums continue to recede. Gum recession should not be taken lightly, as it becomes more difficult to treat the longer it continues. Always contact a vet for specific advice and next steps.

Sign #5

Loose or Missing Teeth

One of the later signs of gum disease is loose or missing teeth. At this stage, the disease has progressed beyond the point of recovery through at-home care. Missing teeth or loose teeth mean that the gums are no longer strong enough for everyday usage such as eating. Chronic, untreated bacterial overgrowth can lead to teeth and gum degradation in dogs.

When To See a Vet

It’s always in a dog owner’s best interest to see a vet regularly. Regular check-ups mean that your vet can catch any signs of disease early on, making it easier to treat and recover from excess gum inflammation. Additionally, you should always make an appointment if you notice any of the signs or symptoms of gum disease in your dog for further evaluation. A vet can discuss with you the best course of action and whether treatment is manageable with at-home care or if your dog needs specialized in-office treatment.