Gingivitis and periodontitis: the main causes
Bacterial plaque is the main cause of plaque-induced gingivitis. Over time, part of the plaque mineralises into tartar, and its rough surface encourages further build-up of plaque. Blood shows up on toys and bones, and in the bowl after meals. Plaque-induced gingivitis can be reversible once the plaque is removed, provided there is no loss of periodontal attachment yet. With periodontitis, the damage lies deeper.
The gums carry a dense network of tiny blood vessels, so even mild inflammation makes them bleed. I explain how the gums and blood supply of the mouth work in How a dog’s and cat’s mouth works.
Other possible causes
Trauma from hard objects, an affected tooth and, less often, conditions that affect the whole body. After the clinical examination I decide whether periodontal probing, dental X-rays or additional general tests are needed.
Why a dog may keep eating with bleeding gums
A dog keeps eating and simply adapts to the discomfort. The owner sees only blood on a toy — and puts off the visit. This is a typical story before a diagnosis of periodontitis.
Diagnosis
A consultation lets me assess the visible changes and decide on a plan. Full dental diagnostics are carried out under anaesthesia, with periodontal probing and dental X-rays.
What the vet does
The approach may include oral cavity sanitation under anaesthesia, treatment below the gumline, periodontal treatment where clinically indicated, and dental X-rays. Brushing at home with a veterinary toothpaste helps after treatment but does not replace it.
Prevention
Regular brushing with a veterinary toothpaste, professional check-ups and safe chews are additions to treatment, not a substitute for it. How often routine dental check-ups are needed is decided individually, taking into account age, breed, bite, home care and previous findings.
When to see a vet
- Blood from the gums appears regularly
- There is bad breath or visible tartar
- The dog avoids hard food or tries to eat or crunch its food on one side
- The gums are red and swollen
- There is blood after brushing the teeth at home
- Loose teeth
- The bleeding has returned after oral cavity sanitation
What not to do at home
- Don’t treat blood as “normal for dogs”
- Don’t brush bleeding gums aggressively
- Don’t put off the visit because the symptom seems “mild”
- Don’t scrape off tartar at home with tools
- Don’t ignore repeated or spontaneous bleeding.
Frequently asked questions
It reduces plaque, but it does not remove tartar under the gums. With active bleeding, an examination comes first.
On its own it can be a sign of inflammation. If periodontitis is the cause and it is left untreated, the disease can progress.
Yes, the two often go together. Bad breath in dogs is most often linked to disease in the mouth, but other causes are possible.
Dental X-rays are needed to assess the bone support and find hidden lesions, while the depth of periodontal pockets is measured during periodontal probing.
In small dogs and some medium-sized breeds, periodontal problems can develop faster because of tooth crowding and less space between the teeth. How often to examine is decided individually.
Sources and professional guidelines
- WSAVA Global Dental GuidelinesGlobal guidelines on veterinary dentistry
- AAHA Dental Care Guidelines for Dogs and CatsClinical guidelines on dental care
- AVDC NomenclatureAVDC nomenclature and terminology
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