The Importance of Examining Your Dog’s Gums 

It is common for a dog’s gums to be overlooked. However, it is crucial to keep them clean and healthy as much as your dog’s teeth. Throughout this article, we will discuss what color your dog’s gums should be, common problems to look out for and how to help your dog maintain healthy gums.

Veterinary experts state that a dog’s gums should be shrimp-colored pink. On the other hand, unhealthy gums are red and inflamed, which can be a sign of gingivitis. Keep in mind that if your dog’s gums are different colors, it can indicate additional health concerns. Pale or white gums indicate anemia, blue gums indicate a lack of oxygen, and yellow gums indicate liver disease.

Bad breath is a common problem that comes with unhealthy gums. Furthermore, gum disease is not usually caused by problems with the gums but by bacteria on the teeth. Periodontal disease is the most common cause of unhealthy gums. Other diseases, such as immune-mediated inflammatory disease, gingival enlargements, bleeding disorders, and oral cancers, can also cause unhealthy gums.

Now that you understand the importance of examining your dog’s gums, you must create a treatment plan to ensure excellent gum health for your four-legged friend. Do you suspect that your dog has gum problems? If you answered yes, schedule a visit with your veterinarian. They will complete a dental exam and take x-rays to determine the appropriate treatment.

The treatment plan will vary based on the exam results and x-rays. Sometimes a good tooth cleaning to eliminate plaque and tartar will be all your dog needs. In more extreme cases, periodontal surgery or tooth extraction may be performed. A gum biopsy may be obtained if other diseases are suspected. Do your part to ensure that your dog has good gum and teeth health.