The mucus membranes of the dog gum’s tissue can give us an important perspective on our pets’ health.

What does the color of your dog’s gums mean?

The gum’s primary function is to provide a protective barrier. Its rich source of blood gives the gums their distinctive pink color. When this color and other normal gum traits change such as moistness and temperatures can mean something is wrong and should be inspected further by a veterinarian.

Periodontal disease

Periodontal diseases are mainly the result of infections and inflammation of the gums and bones that surround and support the teeth. In its early stage, called gingivitis, the gums can become swollen and red, and they may bleed.

Periodontal disease (infection of the gum tissue and bones surrounding teeth) is an increasing health risk that will not go away by itself but requires professional treatment.

It generally returns quickly after cleaning. Many variables influence how quickly it returns and worsens, so cleaning your dog’s teeth at home regularly is critical to help stay away from gum disease.
Brushing your dog daily will help to identify problems sooner.

Signs of unhealthy gums

Among other signs, we can mention:

• Bleeding or inflamed gums.
• Discolored teeth (brown or yellow).
• Red or swollen gums.
• Tender or bleeding gums.
• Bad breath (halitosis).
• Bloody saliva.

A healthy gum has a pink, wet and smooth texture. This also applies to dogs with pigmentation in the mouth. However, it is quite normal for dogs to have black gums and also black spots. This type of stain maybe something the dog was born with. It is important to ensure that the spot is flat. Some dog breeds, such as the Chow Chow, the Akita Inu or the Shar-Pei, have naturally bluish-blackish gums, tongues and lips.

Inflamed gums in dogs

One of the possible causes of inflamed gums in a dog is the accumulation of tartar. Tartar helps bacteria to multiply and this generates bacterial plaques that are located on the teeth and gums. If the gum becomes significantly inflamed, it causes gingivitis. Gingivitis is a type of infection that occurs when the gums become inflamed. Depending on the degree of development of the disease, ulcers and difficulty in eating or drinking may appear and may even lead to bleeding gums. Without proper treatment, it can lead to tooth loss.

Avoiding Gingivitis

The most effective way to prevent canine gingivitis is to provide your dog with proper oral hygiene throughout its life. This involves regular brushing. Supplement their hygiene with bones, cookies and special toys to clean their teeth. By chewing on them, they help wear away tartar and freshen pets’ breath.

Take note if your dos has any of these symptoms:

• Problems eating or chewing.
• Excessive salivation.
• Loose teeth.
• Apathy and depressive attitude.
• Discoloration or breakage of the teeth.
• Swollen gums, reddened and bleeding at the slightest pressure.