Gum Disease in Dogs

Spending quality time with your dog and getting kisses can be a wonderful feeling, but if your dog is suffering from bad breath, then those kisses may not seem as nice! 

 

Dental hygiene is a critical factor in ensuring dogs stay happy and healthy. If a dog’s dental care is neglected, then over time the excess food particles and bacteria get stuck in the teeth and mouth areas. As the bacteria begins to accumulate, plaque begins to form and begins to damage the mouth. When the plaque hardens and turns into tartar, your dog will need a professional dental clean to remove it. 

 

Gum disease can be a very painful experience for dogs. It can cause chronic pain, damaged gums, loose teeth, bone loss, and a whole host of other medical issues. If your dog is suffering from any of the following symptoms, then there’s a high likelihood that they have gum disease: 

• Problems picking up food
• Bleeding and inflamed gums
• Bad breath
• Bumps in the mouth
• Bloody or ropey saliva
• Chewing on one side of the mouth

 

If the proper care and treatment are not given to a dog suffering from gum disease, then over time the bacteria can travel to other parts of the body and lead to heart, kidney, and liver disease. 

Bring Your Canine to Church Ranch Veterinary Center for Dental Care

At Church Ranch Veterinary Center, we understand the importance of keeping your dog’s teeth clean. We perform thorough oral exams on each pet to check for signs of periodontal disease, broken teeth, or other abnormalities, and then create a treatment plan to return your pet’s smile back to its usual glow. Contact us to schedule an appointment. 

 

The best way to treat gum disease is through prevention. Schedule a time where you can brush your dog’s teeth with the proper equipment at least once a day. Feed your dog high quality food, and offer safe dental toys that your dog can chew on. If you notice any inflammation in the gums, take your dog to the vet immediately. The sooner you can begin treatment, the better.