Understanding Causes & Symptoms of Dog Gingivitis

Section 1: Causes of Gingivitis in Dogs

1. Poor Oral Hygiene: After a dog eats, food particles often remain in their mouth. Since dogs are not capable of brushing their own teeth or using their tongues to dislodge debris, it's up to their owners to clean them. If left unchecked, these particles can lead to a buildup of bacteria and germs on the teeth. Over time, this can result in tartar and calculus formation, leading to gingivitis.

2. Tooth Injuries: Dogs naturally love to chew, and if they happen to bite something sharp, it can cause injuries to their teeth or gums. If these injuries go unnoticed and untreated, they can potentially lead to gingivitis.

3. Malformed Teeth: Dogs with malformed teeth are also at an increased risk of developing gingivitis.

4. Vitamin Deficiencies: Prolonged vitamin deficiencies in dogs can contribute to gingivitis, as nutritional imbalances can also trigger the condition.

Section 2: Symptoms of Gingivitis in Dogs

1. Swollen Gums: Dogs with gingivitis will exhibit swollen gums, as the inflammation damages the supporting tissues between the gums and teeth, leading to abscesses.

2. Easy Bleeding Gums: During teeth brushing, you might notice that your dog's gums are bleeding, which is a common sign of gingivitis.

3. Abnormal Gum Color: Normally, a dog's gums are pink. With gingivitis, the gums can turn dark purple or deep red.

4. Excessive Saliva: Dogs with gingivitis may salivate excessively, even when not eating, which is a clear indicator of the condition.

5. Bad Breath: Dogs with gingivitis will have bad breath, and the odor can be noticeable when they are close to their owner.

These are the causes and symptoms of gingivitis in dogs as explained by Oxygen Pet Doctor. We hope this information helps you identify if your dog might have gingivitis. However, to prevent your furry friend from suffering from this condition, it's essential for owners to ensure proper dental care for their pets!