Inflamed gums in dogs: recognizing, treating and preventing them

Good oral health is crucial to your dog’s well-being. Inflamed gums, or gingivitis, are common and can cause a lot of discomfort. Fortunately, with the right approach, you can do a lot to help your dog. In this blog, we’ll tell you how to recognize, treat and prevent inflamed gums in dogs.

What is inflamed gums in dogs?

Inflamed gums occur when plaque builds up along the teeth and gum edges. This can lead to irritation, red gums and even bleeding gums in dogs. Without treatment, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a serious condition that can compromise your dog’s teeth and health.

Gingivitis in dogs

With gingivitis, you often see bleeding during brushing or when your dog chews on toys. This is an early form of gingivitis that is still reversible. By intervening early, you can prevent gingivitis from turning into periodontitis.

Periodontitis in dogs

Periodontitis is an advanced form of gum disease. It affects not only the gums, but also the bone and connective tissue surrounding the teeth. Symptoms of periodontitis in dogs include the following

• Extremely red and swollen gums
• Bad breath
• Loose teeth
• Abscesses or pus in the mouth

This condition is painful and often requires a professional dental cleaning under anesthesia. Regular checkups with the veterinarian can help prevent or treat early periodontitis in dogs.

How do you recognize inflamed gums in your dog?

Dogs don’t always show pain clearly, but there are several signals you can watch for:

• Red gums: Healthy gums are pale pink. Inflamed gums become red and swollen.
• Bleeding: You may see blood on chew toys or while brushing teeth.
• Bad breath: An unpleasant odor may indicate bacterial growth in the mouth.
• Pain in chewing: Your dog may have difficulty eating, avoid hard kibble or be less enthusiastic about chewing.
• Excessive drooling: This can be a sign of toothache or discomfort.

What color should my dog’s gums be?

Healthy gums in a dog should be pale pink, tight, and free of swelling. Dark red, purple or gray gums often indicate inflammation or infection. In severe cases, you may even see abscesses or pus.

What can you do about inflamed gums in a dog?

1. Daily oral care

Start by brushing your dog’s teeth. To do this, use a soft toothbrush and special toothpaste for dogs. Regular brushing removes plaque and prevents inflammation.

2. Diet and chew toys

A balanced diet and chew toys help reduce plaque and support healthy gums. Look for chewing products specifically designed to fight tartar.

3. Use of natural supplements

Supplements such as FlexRex Dental Care offer additional support for your dog’s oral health. These products contain ingredients such as clubweed that fight bacteria and contribute to strong gums.

4. Periodic dental cleaning

Have your dog’s teeth checked and cleaned regularly by your veterinarian. This prevents gum disease from worsening and helps maintain your dog’s oral health.

Can I treat my dog’s gum disease at home?

If your dog has symptoms that indicate irritated gums, you can initially treat this yourself at home. For example, you can properly clean your dog’s teeth regularly and provide support with supplements. With symptoms such as pain, abscesses or bleeding, it is important to contact your veterinarian.

Want to learn more about oral health in dogs? Then check out our tips for healthy dog teeth.