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Inflammation of the gums

Inflammation of the gums in dogs is a common disease caused by bacteria. It can lead to pain, bad breath, bleeding gums and tooth loss. If left untreated, it can also damage other organs. In this article, you will learn how to recognize, prevent and treat gingivitis in your dog.

Symptoms of gingivitis

The symptoms of gingivitis in dogs can vary depending on the severity. The most common signs include

  • swollen, reddened or bleeding gums
  • Yellow or brown plaque on the teeth (tartar)
  • strong bad breath
  • reluctance to eat or one-sided chewing
  • Wobbling or loss of teeth

If you notice one or more of these symptoms in your dog, you should take him to the vet. They can make a diagnosis and initiate the appropriate treatment.

Causes of gingivitis

The main cause of gingivitis in dogs is poor oral hygiene. If the teeth are not cleaned regularly, bacteria build up that lead to plaque and tartar. These can irritate and inflame the gums.

However, there are also other factors that can promote gum inflammation, such as

  • Misaligned or crowded teeth
  • Foreign bodies in the mouth (stones, sticks, etc.)
  • Eating feces or other unhygienic substances
  • Soft or sugary food
  • Age, breed or genetic predisposition

Treatment of gingivitis

The treatment of gingivitis in dogs depends on the stage of the disease. It usually involves the following steps:

  • Removal of plaque and tartar under anesthesia
  • Polishing of the teeth
  • Administration of antibiotics and painkillers
  • Check-up and aftercare

In some cases, it may also be necessary to remove inflamed or dead gums or to extract loose or damaged teeth.

In addition to veterinary treatment, you can also use some home remedies to support healing and relieve inflammation. These include:

  • Rinsing the mouth with chamomile tea or salt water
  • Applying honey or coconut oil to the gums
  • Feeding soft or pureed food
  • Avoiding hard or sharp treats

You can also use homeopathic remedies to strengthen your dog's self-healing powers. These include, for example

Preventing inflammation of the gums

The best prevention of gingivitis in dogs is good oral care. This includes

  • Daily brushing of the teeth with a special dog toothbrush and paste
  • Regular checks of the teeth and gums
  • Use of dental care chews or toys
  • Feeding high-quality dry food or raw meat with bones
  • Annual professional dental cleaning at the vet

A healthy diet, sufficient exercise and lots of love are also important to keep your dog fit and happy.

The authors assume that a veterinarian should be consulted if an animal is ill and that medication should only be taken after consultation with a doctor or pharmacist. Only an individual examination can lead to a diagnosis and treatment decision.

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