Gingivitis and periodontal disease
Bacterial plaque is the main driver of plaque-induced gingivitis. Over time some plaque mineralises into tartar, which keeps inflammation going. Blood may appear on toys, chews and in the bowl after meals. Plaque-induced gingivitis can reverse after plaque control if attachment loss has not yet begun. In periodontitis the damage is deeper.
Other possible causes
Trauma from hard objects, a diseased tooth, and, less often, systemic conditions. After clinical examination I decide whether periodontal probing, dental radiographs or further general tests are needed.
Diagnostics
A consultation allows visible changes to be assessed and a further plan to be made. Full dental diagnostics are carried out under anaesthesia with periodontal probing and dental radiography.
What the vet does
The approach may include professional hygiene under anaesthesia, subgingival treatment, periodontal therapy when clinically indicated, and dental radiography. Home brushing 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 complement treatment — they do not replace it. How often planned dental examinations are needed is decided individually based on age, breed, bite, home care and previous findings.
When to see a vet
- Gum bleeding happens regularly
- There's bad breath or visible tartar
- The dog avoids hard food or chews on one side
- Gums are red and swollen
- Bleeding after home toothbrushing
- Loose teeth
- Bleeding returned after professional hygiene
What not to do at home
- Don't consider bleeding "normal for dogs"
- Don't brush aggressively over bleeding gums
- Don't delay a visit because the symptom seems "mild"
- Don't scale tartar at home with tools
- Don't ignore recurrent or spontaneous bleeding.
Frequently asked questions
It reduces plaque, but doesn't remove tartar below the gumline. If there's active bleeding, an examination comes first.
By itself it can be a sign of inflammation. If periodontitis is the cause and left untreated, disease may progress.
Often yes. Bad breath in dogs is most often linked to oral pathology, but other causes are possible.
Dental radiographs are needed to assess bone support and hidden lesions; periodontal pocket depth is measured during periodontal probing.
In small dogs and some medium breeds, periodontal problems can develop faster because of crowding and less space between teeth. Examination intervals are decided individually.
Sources and professional guidelines
- WSAVA Global Dental GuidelinesГлобальні настанови з ветеринарної стоматології
- AAHA Dental Care Guidelines for Dogs and CatsКлінічні настанови з дентального догляду
- AVDC NomenclatureНоменклатура та термінологія AVDC