Why Are My Dog’s Gums Red?
Have you noticed that your dog’s gums look redder than usual? It is easy to overlook your dog’s mouth, especially if they seem happy, are eating normally and behaving as they always do.
Red gums should not simply be brushed off, though. They can be a sign that something is irritating your dog’s mouth, and dental disease is one of the most common causes.
What Should Healthy Dog Gums Look Like?
Healthy gums are usually a salmon pink colour. Some dogs naturally have areas of dark pigmentation on their gums, so getting to know what is normal for your own dog is useful.
If you gently lift your dog’s lip and notice that the gums around their teeth look bright red, swollen or irritated, it is worth paying closer attention.
You may also notice other changes, such as bad breath, bleeding, tartar on the teeth or your dog chewing differently.
Why Are My Dog’s Gums Red?
There are several possible reasons. Some are minor, while others need veterinary treatment.
Plaque and tartar
One of the most common causes is a build up of plaque.
Plaque contains bacteria and forms naturally on the teeth. If it is not removed, it can harden into tartar. As this builds up around the gum line, the gums can become inflamed and sore.
This inflammation is known as gingivitis.
You might see redness around the teeth, particularly where the gum meets the tooth. Your dog may also have noticeably bad breath.
Dental disease
Red gums can be an early sign of dental disease.
Dogs can continue eating even when their mouths are uncomfortable, which means dental problems can sometimes go unnoticed at home. Other signs include dropping food, chewing on one side of the mouth, excessive drooling, pawing at the mouth and changes in appetite.
That is why regular checks are important.
At Rackheath Vets, our pet dental care service includes dental checks and treatment for common problems such as plaque, tartar, sore gums and damaged teeth.
A damaged or broken tooth
A cracked or broken tooth can also cause pain and inflammation.
This can happen after chewing something very hard or following an injury. A damaged tooth may become infected, so it should be checked by a vet rather than left to see if it improves.
You may notice your dog avoiding hard food, chewing differently or becoming reluctant to have their mouth touched.
Something stuck in the mouth
Dogs are curious creatures. Grass, bits of food and other small objects can sometimes become trapped around the teeth or gums.
If your dog suddenly starts pawing at their mouth, drooling more than usual or seems uncomfortable when eating, have a look if they will allow you to do so safely.
Never force your dog’s mouth open if they are frightened or in pain.
Does Red Gums Always Mean Dental Disease?
Not necessarily.
There are several possible causes of red or irritated gums, so you cannot tell what is wrong simply by looking at them. The location of the redness, how severe it is and whether your dog has other symptoms can all provide useful clues.
If the redness is persistent, getting worse or accompanied by other changes, arrange a veterinary check.
Other Signs to Look Out For
Red gums are often easier to spot alongside other symptoms.
Keep an eye out for:
Bad breath
Swollen or bleeding gums
Yellow or brown tartar on the teeth
Dropping food while eating
Difficulty chewing
Eating less than usual
Excessive drooling
Pawing or rubbing at the mouth
Loose or broken teeth
Facial swelling
You do not need to wait for all of these signs to appear. If something looks different from normal, it is worth asking your vet for advice.
How Can I Look After My Dog’s Teeth?
Good dental care starts at home.
Regular tooth brushing can help reduce plaque and prevent dental problems from developing. Use toothpaste made specifically for dogs, as human toothpaste is not suitable for them.
It is best to introduce brushing gradually. Let your dog get used to having their mouth touched first, then slowly introduce the toothbrush.
Your vet can also advise you on suitable dental products and a routine that works for your dog.
If there is already a significant amount of tartar or your dog’s gums are sore and inflamed, brushing alone will not remove the problem. A veterinary dental examination may be needed.
When Should I Take My Dog to the Vet?
If your dog’s gums are persistently red, swollen or bleeding, arrange an appointment with your vet.
You should also get advice if your dog has bad breath, struggles to eat, drops food, has a broken tooth or seems painful around their mouth.
Dental problems can become more serious if they are left untreated. A veterinary examination gives your team the chance to identify the cause and recommend appropriate treatment.
Dog Dental Care in Rackheath, Norwich and Norfolk
At Rackheath Vets, we provide dental care for dogs and cats from Rackheath, Norwich and across Norfolk.
Our team can check your pet’s teeth and gums, look for signs of dental disease and discuss the best way to care for their mouth. Where treatment is needed, we can also provide dental procedures such as descaling and treatment for damaged or painful teeth.
If you have noticed that your dog’s gums are red or you are concerned about their dental health, call Rackheath Vets on 01603 955056 to discuss your concerns.