The dog gums may be good indicators of the pet's health. The normal color of gums is pink or even red, and when the dog has a medical condition (i.e., low blood pressure or hypothermia), the gums will be more pale. When the gums are bleeding, this can indicate a number of problems, caused by external factors or internal problems.
Causes of Dog Gums Bleeding
The gums may be bleeding and the dog's saliva will turn red. If the dog swallows the blood, he may vomit this back, as the stomach may not tolerate the blood. The bleeding gums may be caused by various problems:
- Gingivitis and periodontal disease, which is caused by a poor dental hygiene
- Injuries to the gums
- Poisoning, due to ingested substances such as toxic plants, chocolate, alcohol, antifreeze, rat poison or other chemicals in the house
Additional Symptoms
The dog may present a host of additional symptoms, varying according to the underlying condition:
- Visible injuries in the maxillaries or mouth area
- Broken teeth, due to an injury
- Bad breath
- Discolored gums, due to periodontal disease
- Red and inflamed gums, due to gingivitis
- Pus or pockets filled with pus around the teeth
- Loose teeth
- Pawing the mouth area
- Vomiting, often with blood
- Seizures, indicative of toxicity
- Sudden collapse
- Confusion
- Lack of appetite and refusal to eat kibble food, due to pain
- Lethargy
- Excessive drooling
- Thick saliva, often with blood
- Receding gums
These symptoms should be noticed, so that the diagnosis will be easier to make. If you suspect poisoning, immediate veterinary care is crucial.
Treating Bleeding Gums
Bleeding gums due to periodontal disease can be stopped, but the condition is not reversible. The dog can get antibiotics and he will gradually lose his teeth.
If the dog has suffered from an injury, the bleeding can be stopped by applying pressure on the affected areas and by fixing the problem. In some cases, a tooth extraction will be needed. A more serious facial surgery will be needed if the injury is severe.
A dog with poisoning should be helped to vomit and should get activated charcoal. The charcoal should absorb the toxins from the dog's system. If the dog has ingested bleach or other chemicals, vomiting shouldn't be induced. Immediate intervention is essential, as the dog can die.
Preventing Dog Gums Bleeding
Gum bleeding due to gingivitis and periodontal disease can be prevented. The dog should get his teeth brushed daily, as this will prevent the accumulation of plaque and tartar. Plaque can be removed, but the tartar or calculus cannot be removed with normal brushing. Tartar deposits will lead to gum disease. An annual professional brushing is also suggested for the dog's oral health.
Poisoning can be prevented by making sure the dog doesn't have access to any toxic materials. Make sure the plants in your home are safe for canines. Don't allow your dog to eat from the garbage.